HOUSTON -- A southeast Houston elementary school student said somebody tried to grab her as she walked to school Thursday morning, KPRC Local 2 reported.

The 7-year-old Sanchez Elementary student told investigators that a man jumped out in front of her in a park near the school, located at 2700 Berkley, and told her to come with him.

She screamed and ran off. Some joggers nearby helped the little girl and took her to school.

The attacker escaped.

School officials sent out an audio message informing parents of the incident. They encourage students to walk in groups.

Letter Sent To Parents

May 28, 2009

Dear Parents/Padres,

This morning, there was a near abduction of one of our students.

We have reported the incident to the proper authorities and they are conducting an investigation at this time. We will be reminding our students to walk in groups and run away from strangers who may approach them.

Please remember that your child's safety is our number one priority. As our partners in this important endeavor we would ask that you.

Please be on the look out for and report any suspicious people in the area.
If possible, please escort your child to school if they are walkers or to their bus stop if they ride the bus.
Should your child have to walk to and from school or the bus stop without supervision, make sure he or she walks in a group and never alone.
Parents, please remind your child if they are approached by a stranger to run away while making enough noise to call attention to the situation.

The HISD Police Department has added extra patrols in the area. If you have any questions regarding this matter please contact the school at 713-845-7472

Jesse Herrera, Principal