Man allegedly attempts to kidnap woman in Market Basket parking lot

A 53-year-old Lawrence man was arrested Friday night after police say he attempted to kidnap a woman in a Methuen Market Basket parking lot.

Police were called to the supermarket at 186 Haverhill St. around 7:50 p.m. for a report of an attempted carjacking, according to a release.

From police:

Upon arrival, officers spoke to a woman who stated that she was in her car with the door closed when a man, later identified as (Rafael) Rosario, allegedly forced his way into her car without her permission, grabbed her by the throat and pushed her further into the vehicle.

Fearing for her life, the victim started screaming for help and beeping the car horn to get someone’s attention. A witness had just pulled into the parking space across from the victim in a pickup truck and saw the commotion and began to come help.

Rosario then exited the woman’s car and ran across the parking lot toward the area of Hobson Street. The male witness told the victim to call 911 and briefly chased Rosario before stopping and waiting for police.

Responding officers searched the area and soon found Rosario “lying in the snow along a fence in the back corner of a property,” the release says.

Rosario was arrested and charged with strangulation, attempted kidnapping, attempted carjacking, and assault and battery. He’s expected to be arraigned Monday in Lawrence District Court.

Methuen Fire Department EMTs responded to the scene to treat the woman, who police say refused further medical attention.

“I would like to commend the brave citizen who witnessed this incident and sprang into action to help,” Methuen Police Chief Joseph Solomon said in a statement. “However, chasing after a suspect is something that can be extremely dangerous and we ask all residents that find themselves in an emergency to call 911 and let our officers take over from there.”