Miramar Kidnapping Attempt: Video Shows Teen Escape

A reported attempted kidnapping in Miramar, Florida, has raised concerns about child safety after surveillance footage showed a teenager escaping an encounter with a man at a gas station. Police identified the suspect as Michael Polanco, 32, following an incident at a Shell gas station on South State Road 7. The incident reportedly occurred on October 19, 2026, at approximately 5:34 p.m. The teenager escaped and sought help, while a witness intervened and authorities later arrested the suspect.

What Happened at the Miramar Gas Station?

According to police, the 13 year old girl was walking home when a man allegedly approached her and grabbed her from behind. The suspect reportedly placed her in a headlock and attempted to move her away from the area. The incident occurred at the Shell gas station at 2840 South State Road 7 in Miramar. The confrontation was captured on surveillance footage, which reportedly showed the teenager struggling to escape the suspect’s hold. The girl eventually broke free and ran toward the gas station to seek help. Her escape prevented the alleged abduction from progressing further.

Surveillance Video Shows Teenager Escaping

Surveillance footage reportedly captured the moment the suspect grabbed the teenager and attempted to restrain her. The video showed the girl escaping his hold and running toward safety. A witness who was nearby reportedly noticed the confrontation and intervened. The witness’s actions helped draw attention to the incident and gave the teenager an opportunity to get away. The footage became an important part of the reported account of the incident. Police used witness information and identification from the teenager as part of their investigation.

Witness Helps Teenager Get to Safety

A witness near the gas station reportedly saw the confrontation unfold and stepped in to help. The intervention helped bring attention to the situation while the teenager attempted to escape. The teenager was able to reach safety and get assistance. Authorities have not publicly identified the girl, and protecting her identity is important because she is a minor. The incident highlights the potential importance of bystanders recognizing dangerous situations and contacting emergency services when someone may be at risk.

Police Locate and Arrest Michael Polanco

Police identified the suspect as Michael Polanco, 32. Following the alleged attempted kidnapping, Polanco reportedly fled westbound from the gas station. Officers responding to the incident received information about another disturbance involving a man who matched the suspect’s description. Police redirected their response and located a man nearby. According to the reported police account, the teenager and a witness identified Polanco as the person involved in the gas station incident. He was subsequently arrested and transported to the Broward County Main Jail.

Charges Filed Against the Suspect

Polanco reportedly faces charges of battery causing bodily harm and kidnapping involving bodily harm or terrorizing a victim. A judge reportedly denied bond following his court appearance on October 20, 2026. The charges reflect the seriousness of the allegations, but they do not establish guilt. Polanco is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court, and the allegations must be addressed through the criminal justice process.

Police Reportedly Cite Suspect’s Criminal History

Authorities reportedly referenced Polanco’s previous criminal history, including prior allegations or convictions involving felony battery, burglary and exposure of sexual organs. That information has drawn attention because of the nature of the current allegations involving a minor. However, previous criminal matters do not independently establish guilt in this case. The current allegations must be evaluated based on the available evidence and the legal proceedings.

What the Incident Means for Child Safety

The alleged attempted kidnapping highlights how quickly a dangerous encounter can unfold in a public place. In this case, the teenager’s ability to break free, reach a nearby business and seek help was central to the reported sequence of events. The witness’s intervention also demonstrates how recognizing a potentially dangerous situation and contacting authorities can help bring assistance. People who witness an emergency should prioritize safety and contact law enforcement rather than placing themselves or others in unnecessary danger. Authorities have not publicly identified the teenager. Additional information about the case may become available through official police updates and court proceedings.

What Is Known About the Miramar Kidnapping Attempt?

The reported incident occurred on October 19, 2026, at a Shell gas station on South State Road 7 in Miramar, Florida. Police identified Michael Polanco, 32, as the suspect after a 13 year old girl allegedly escaped when he grabbed her and attempted to restrain her. A witness reportedly intervened, and officers later located Polanco nearby. The teenager and a witness identified him, according to the reported police account. He was arrested and faced battery and kidnapping related charges, and a judge reportedly denied bond. The case centers on the teenager’s escape, the witness’s intervention and the subsequent arrest. The allegations remain subject to the criminal court process.