Key Point Summary โ Creep tries to drag woman
- Theodore Tundidor caught on camera attempting to abduct a woman
- Attack happened outside a retail store in St. Augustine, Florida
- Woman screamed, fought back, and managed to break free
- Bystander intervened and called 911, forcing suspect to flee
- Tundidor arrested after high-speed chase by Fish and Wildlife officers
- Suspect also accused of robbery and stealing a vehicle at the scene
- Police praise the womanโs quick thinking and resistance
Attack Caught on Shocking Surveillance Footage
A terrifying scene unfolded outside a Florida store when a man tried to kidnap a woman in broad daylight. The creep tries to drag woman into his truck, as caught on dramatic surveillance footage released by the St. Johns County Sheriffโs Office.
The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. on June 29 in St. Augustine. Video shows 31-year-old Theodore Michael Tundidor violently choking a woman and trying to force her toward his Toyota Tacoma in a retail parking lot.
Despite the sudden ambush, the woman fought back. She screamed, resisted, and desperately struggled as Tundidor tried to shove her into the truck. Her loud cries and determined resistance ultimately helped her escape.
Quick Thinking Saves Her Life
Authorities confirmed the woman was able to break free and run after the horrifying struggle. A good Samaritan who witnessed the attack quickly stepped in and called 911. This rapid response forced the attacker to abandon his plan and speed off in the pickup.
Thanks to that call, officers from Florida Fish and Wildlife spotted the vehicle a short time later on Route A1A. They reported the truck driving recklessly before engaging in a high-speed pursuit that ended with Tundidorโs arrest.
Police say Tundidor didnโt just attempt a kidnapping. Heโs also accused of robbing a business at the scene and stealing the truck, making the incident even more disturbing.
Facing a Slew of Charges
Tundidor now faces multiple charges, including kidnapping, robbery, and grand theft auto, according to the sheriffโs office. He was booked following the chase and remains in custody pending further proceedings.
Officials praised the womanโs actions during the attack, saying she likely saved her own life through instinct and courage.
Sheriffโs Office Urges Vigilance
โThe victim in this situation did everything right โ scream/yell, fight, attract attention,โ the sheriffโs office said in a statement. They credited her bravery and quick thinking with foiling what could have been a devastating crime.
According to the agencyโs Women Against Violent Encounters instructors, awareness and readiness are crucial when facing danger. They advise women to stay alert, understand their โdanger zones,โ and always trust their instincts.
โAttitude, mental commitment, and preparation are keys to success,โ authorities added.
Community Shaken but Inspired
The footage has since spread across social media, sparking fear and admiration. Many users have praised the victim for her strength under pressure. Others expressed concern about rising boldness in public crimes during daylight hours.
Law enforcement hopes the case will raise awareness and encourage more people to intervene or report suspicious behavior immediately.
For now, one woman is safe thanks to her own refusal to be a victimโand the bravery of a bystander who refused to look away.