On a bustling Coney Island sidewalk, a terrifying scene unfolded as a 36-year-old man attempted to kidnap a young boy, only to be stopped by the child's quick-acting parents. The incident took place on a Sunday night near the intersection of Stillwell and Surf avenues, in the heart of the entertainment district, teeming with families and tourists.
Rah’Shem "Rah’Rah" Gantt, the 6-year-old victim, was enjoying a summer evening with his family, engaging in beach activities and amusement park rides when the assailant, donned in black and a distinctive fez-style hat, snatched the boy. Sharon Robinson, the boy's mother, heard her son's screams and saw the man holding him like a football. The family had been getting popcorn when Gantt began to lag behind, providing the kidnapper with an opportunity.
The timing of the attack implied premeditation, with the kidnapper possibly observing the family, waiting for a moment to isolate the child. Footage from Freedomnews captured the suspect as he picked up the child. However, he abandoned his plan and threw the boy to the ground as he noticed the parents charging towards him.
Robinson and her husband chased the suspect through the streets, with the pursuit ending when she pushed him to the ground near the IT’SUGAR candy shop. Confusion ensued as police officers initially restrained Robinson, but bystanders clarified that the tall-hatted man was the perpetrator. Despite the delay, police eventually arrested the suspect.
As of Monday afternoon, the man faced pending charges, including attempted kidnapping and endangering the welfare of a child. Gantt, transported to Coney Island Hospital, was listed in stable condition, suffering only minor pain after the ordeal. The boy's emotional distress was palpable as he cried non-stop even while in the ambulance.
The randomness of the attack left the family shaken, with Robinson expressing her desire for full legal consequences for the suspect. She reflected on how the situation could have been tragically worse if not for her son's loud scream and their prompt intervention. The community at Coney Island witnessed an unsettling reminder of potential dangers, even in the midst of summer festivities.
