Suspect sought in kidnapping from Downtown Cincinnati parking garage

CINCINNATI - Cincinnati Police are stepping up patrols near downtown parking garages after a man kidnapped a woman Wedneday night and tried to abduct two others.

The incidents happened within 45 minutes of one another Wednesday night at the city-owned garage at 7th and Sycamore streets.

Lt. Col. Vince Demasi said the suspect approached two women at separate times around 6 p.m., but they were able to get away from him.

The third woman was forced into her own car and made to drive to Dorthy Lane in East Price Hill -- an isolated dead-end street.

"She got to the point where she realized if she went down that street she might not come back so she fought the man," said Demasi.

The suspect grabbed her purse, got out of the car and fled on foot. The woman's injuries weren't life threatening and she got a resident of the area to call 911.

Police have issued the following description of the suspect:

* Male white in his 20s
* Average height and build
* Blue eyes
* Light colored hair -- possibly strawberry blonde -- short cut and spiked with gel
* Tatoo on the left side of his neck with a name starting with the letter "L"
* Last seen wearing a white T-shirt and blue jean shorts

David Ginsburg, President of DCI, Downtown Cincinnati, Incorporated, said downtown is safe and the incident is an isolated, rare occurrence.

However, he did say everyone needs to be aware of their surroundings at all times. If people feel uncomfortable, they should call 911.