Self-defense instructor urges women to learn how to protect themselves after 2 attempted kidnappings

Attempted kidnappings happened on the Southeast Side over the weekend

SAN ANTONIO – As San Antonio police continue the search for a suspect who attempted to kidnap a woman and child on the Southeast Side last weekend, a self-defense instructor in that part of town is urging women to take a class to learn to protect themselves.

Casey Soares teaches self-defense at Ohana Academy Books. Her students typically include law enforcement officers and victims of domestic violence.

Soares said every female, regardless of age or athletic ability, should know how to defend themselves if they encounter someone trying to kidnap or attack them.

“Being physical in general, it’s not always the first thing in a woman’s mind to actually protect themselves,” she said.

Soares said the classes and muscle memory through practice make people more comfortable using the techniques they learn.

“You will be panicking, and it’s important to just have what you’re going to do in your mind,” she said.

San Antonio police are looking for a suspect in a maroon Nissan Murano who attempted to kidnap a woman and a child in separate incidents in broad daylight over the weekend. They were able to fight off the attacker before he could take them.

If you have any information, call SAPD at 210-207-7273.

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Patty Santos joined the KSAT 12 News team in July 2017. She has a proven track record of reporting on hard-hitting news that affects the community.

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