Police: Man carrying extension cord and zip ties approached boys at Des Plaines park

Authorities said two boys playing at a Des Plaines park Wednesday were approached by a man carrying an extension cord and zip ties.

The siblings, ages 8 and 17, were at Jaycee Park, 1496 Wicke Ave., when the man approached them, police said in a community alert issued Thursday morning.

Police said it appeared the man realized one of the brothers was older, and he returned to his vehicle, never making contact with the children.

The siblings then walked home, and the man followed them in his vehicle, fleeing the area once they were inside, according to police.

The incident happened at 5:40 p.m. but it wasn't reported until 7:22 p.m. by the children's father. Officers patrolled the neighborhood in hopes of finding the suspected vehicle, but couldn't locate it, authorities said.

Police described the man as about 30 years old and wearing all black. The vehicle was a black SUV with silver rims and tinted windows.

Investigators ask that anyone with information, including those who may have captured the interaction on a home surveillance camera, to contact the police department at (847) 391-5457.