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Auburn police arrest man suspected of trying to kidnap barista

AUBURN, Wash. — Auburn police have arrested a man suspected of attempting to abduct a barista through a drive-through window early Monday morning.

Police announced the arrest on Twitter at 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday.

The man was arrested at his Auburn home, where investigators were able to do a quick search of his pickup and found evidence linking him to the scene, according to Auburn Police Department spokesperson Kolby Crossley.

After the suspect is questioned, he will be booked into jail for attempted kidnapping and possibly other charges.

Police shared surveillance video of the incident, which shows the man pulling up to the window at 5:06 a.m.

He then grabs the barista’s arm and attempts to drag her outside using a looped zip tie that he’s holding with his other hand.

The barista was able to fight off the attacker and pull away.

The video then shows the man dropping cash on the ground as he drives away.

Police said the suspect had a unique tattoo on his left forearm that says “Chevrolet.” They were also looking for a dark-colored Chevy Silverado.

The barista was working alone at the time of the incident.

“They are in vulnerable positions because they’re usually controlling those spots by themselves at early hours in the morning when it’s dark outside. But this barista did an awesome job of protecting herself and fighting this person off,” said Crossley.

Auburn police said they arrested the suspect after receiving “overwhelming support from the community.”