Attempted kidnapping near Van Buren, Mo., investigated

VAN BUREN, Mo. -- The attempted kidnapping of a 19-year-old woman jogging near Van Buren is being investigated by the Carter County Sheriff's Department.

Three men in a white van are being sought, according to Sheriff Bruce Van Belle.

Van Belle said the van pulled up beside the jogger late Thursday afternoon.

"One man opened the back door and told her to get inside, but she refused," Van Belle said.

She ran into the woods and the three men searched for her. She hid behind a log. She could hear the men talking, but they gave up looking for her when they couldn't see her and "took off in the van real fast."

She said some of the van's windows were painted gray or white.

Van Belle expressed appreciation to area sheriff's and police departments and the Missouri State Highway Patrol for providing leads.

"We have checked out a dozen vans," he said.