Huntersville woman used pepper spray to thwart attempted kidnapping

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — A woman was standing behind a Huntersville grocery store Tuesday night when police said a man tried to kidnap her.

Police said the victim, who was standing outside the Food Lion on Statesville Road, used pepper spray on the man and then got in her car and drove away.

Tim Stone, who hangs around the area a lot, told Channel 9 that it’s not unusual to see people walking through that part of the shopping center, especially at night.

“A lot of people, they cut through here from the apartments,” Stone said.

Police are searching the area for video footage, trying to get more information about what happened and about the man.

Police asked Eddie Passiglia, the general manager at the Little Caesar’s, if they had security cameras.

Passiglia said it’s a crime that has him worried.

"We're open late, and I employ females, who are here late at night as well, so it's definitely a concern,” Passiglia said. “You know, I make sure that their vehicles are parked on the side and that somebody goes with them."

Huntersville police couldn't say whether the victim was a Food Lion employee or not.

They are still trying to get a suspect description.

Cox Media Group