Man Attempted to Kidnap Woman from Home Depot Parking Lot

HOBBS, N.M. – A Philadelphia man was arrested Wednesday after allegedly dragging a woman in the parking lot of a Home Depot in Hobbs, New Mexico.

Hobbs Police Department officers responded to a call around 900 West Joe Harvey Boulevard, where witnesses reported hearing a woman screaming for help in the Home Depot store's parking lot. Bystanders ran to assist the victim and confronted the suspect, later identified as 41-year-old Bunran Chhay of Philadelphia, who fled the scene.

Officers located Chhay shortly after in a nearby hotel room. He was detained and taken to the Hobbs Police Department for questioning.

According to investigators, Chhay had been following the woman inside the Home Depot before approaching her in the parking lot. During the encounter, authorities said he exposed himself.

Chhay was arrested and charged with attempted kidnapping, a third-degree felony, and indecent exposure, a misdemeanor.

Hobbs police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact dispatch at (575) 397-9265 or Lea County Crime Stoppers at (575) 393-8005. Tips can also be sent through the department's Facebook page, though it is not monitored in real-time.

Police reminded the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious behavior. They also advised individuals who believe they are being followed to stay in populated areas and call 911.