ABC News October 5, 2023

Man allegedly tries to abduct University of Virginia student: Police

WATCH: Suspect in college student's abduction taken into custody

A man has been taken into custody one day after he allegedly tried to abduct a University of Virginia student, police said.

Authorities responded to the scene Wednesday night and found that the suspect's car had hit multiple other cars and trees before he fled, according to the Charlottesville Police Department.

A woman at the scene told responders that an unknown man had strangled her and tried to abduct her, police said.

Charlottesville Police Department
The Charlottesville Police Department released this photo of James Robert Allen.
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The victim, an unidentified woman, was taken to the hospital in stable condition, police said.

The victim and suspect -- 40-year-old James Robert Allen of Suffolk, Virginia -- did not appear to know each other, police said.

Charlottesville Police Department
The Charlottesville Police Department released this photo of James Robert Allen.
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Police said Thursday morning that "a heavy law enforcement presence" remained in the area as they searched for Allen, who was wanted on charges of abduction and strangulation.

Police said Allen was taken into custody shortly after noon on Thursday.