UPDATE: Kidnapping Attempt Reported Near First Baptist Church

UPDATE (1:40 p.m.): The Canton Police Department has released more information about the attempted kidnapping outside the First Baptist Church in Canton.

According to a department release, an adult woman was walking on the sidewalk of Reservoir Drive near the church when a man exited the woodline near the sidewalk and approached her.

The woman told authorities that the man threatened to abduct her, and was allegedly carrying a hand gun. The woman immediately crossed the street, flagged down a passing motorist, and called 911.

ORIGINAL STORY (12:45 p.m.): The Canton Police Department and the Cherokee Sheriff's Office are on the hunt for a man who allegedly attempted to kidnap an adult from the First Baptist Church in Canton.

According to the Canton Police Department, a report of an attempted kidnapping was received at 10:48 a.m. Thursday at the church on Mission Point.

Initial reports describe the kidnapping suspect as a white male in his early thirties, possibly armed with a handgun. The suspect was wearing a burgundy long sleeved shirt, a khaki-colored baseball cap, sunglasses, and blue jeans. At last sighting, the suspect was walking northbound towards Great Sky.

Authorities are urging the public to avoid confronting the suspect and to lock all doors and windows if you live in the area. If you spot the suspect, contact 911 immediately.

The Canton Police Department, Canton Marine Patrol, and Cherokee Sheriff's Office are searching the nearby woods and shoreline for the suspect.

Please stay with Canton-Sixes Patch as more information becomes available.