Clerk fights off attempted kidnapper in Florida store
- A female store clerk was attacked by a man who first robbed her workplace and then attempted to forcibly take her outside.
- She fought back and called for help, leading to a nearby bystander notifying law enforcement.
- The suspect was eventually caught and faces several serious charges.
In the United States, a disturbing incident occurred on June 19 when a man attempted to kidnap a female employee from a store in St. Augustine, Florida. The suspect, later identified as 31-year-old Theodore Michael Tundidor, initially committed a robbery inside the establishment. After robbing the store, he forcefully pulled the victim out of the store and tried to force her into his vehicle in the parking lot. As the confrontation escalated, the store clerk bravely fought back against her attacker. In a moment of courage, she managed to escape back inside the store, with Tundidor in pursuit. Her struggle attracted the attention of a passerby who witnessed the chaos. This bystander quickly intervened by calling 911, alarming law enforcement of the kidnapping attempt. Upon receiving the report, deputies from the St. Johns Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the scene. Meanwhile, Tundidor abandoned his kidnapping efforts and fled the area. Law enforcement officials, however, quickly responded to the unfolding situation. Later, officers from Florida Fish and Wildlife found him driving recklessly along State Road A1A, approximately 20 miles south of the original incident. The situation culminated in Tundidor's capture. He now faces multiple charges, including kidnapping, robbery, and grand theft auto, as a result of his reckless actions. In addition to those charges, Tundidor was also charged for driving under the influence and attempting to evade law enforcement officers. His arrest highlights the importance of swift action by bystanders and law enforcement in preventing potential tragedies during such critical situations.