QUICK THINKING SAVED ME FROM DANGER IN TIMES SQUARE, On a fateful day at age 14, I narrowly escaped two abduction attempts in the same day, thanks to a mix of quick thinking and sheer luck. This close call occurred after my family moved from Montreal, Canada to Queens, NY, and I ventured into Manhattan alone to get my hands on Alan Moore’s Swamp Thing issue #20. I was thrilled to find the comic and later visited a video store in Times Square, an experience that felt magical to a young boy from Canada. However, my excitement turned into a dangerous encounter when I noticed a man who made me uncomfortable. After leaving the store, I was.
On a fateful day at age 14, I narrowly escaped two abduction attempts in the same day, thanks to a mix of quick thinking and sheer luck. This close call occurred after my family moved from Montreal, Canada to Queens, NY, and I ventured into Manhattan alone to get my hands on Alan Moore’s Swamp Thing issue #20. I was thrilled to find the comic and later visited a video store in Times Square, an experience that felt magical to a young boy from Canada. However, my excitement turned into a dangerous encounter when I noticed a man who made me uncomfortable.
After leaving the store, I was approached by a man who threatened me, saying, “Don’t run or I’ll cut you!” This alarming statement prompted me to flee, leaving my precious comic book behind. When I returned to retrieve my bag, I realized the man was following me. As I walked down a quieter side street, I spotted a parking enforcement officer and decided to use the opportunity to get help. I pointed out the man and claimed he had tried to mug me. The would-be attacker walked away, and I safely made my way home, shaken but unharmed.
Looking back, I realize how close I came to a potentially dangerous situation and how fortunate I was to have escaped unscathed. My quick decision to involve the parking enforcement officer helped me avoid what could have been a far worse outcome. I often wonder if there’s any way to find out if anyone was ever arrested for similar crimes in Times Square during the early 80s. This experience remains a poignant reminder of how quickly life can change and the importance of staying vigilant.
