A mother at a Shell station in Marietta defended her children after a man attempted to force his way into their vehicle. The encounter occurred shortly after midnight and was captured on surveillance video.
The suspect, identified as 30‑year‑old Jerahn Tucker, approached the vehicle shirtless and barefoot. He spoke briefly with the woman before charging at the car, trying to open the doors and pull a child from the back seat.
Police described the suspect as aggressive, noting that he claimed to possess a firearm during the confrontation. Witnesses reported that Tucker continued to pursue the children even after one fled the vehicle.
In response, the mother seized the gas pump hose and used it to keep Tucker at bay while two bystanders intervened. The video shows the mother maintaining the barrier until additional help arrived.
Both bystanders dropped their belongings and rushed to assist, while a 911 call was placed. Their combined effort prevented the suspect from reaching the children.
Police located Tucker a short distance from the station, stopped his vehicle, and placed him under arrest. Officers credited the calm actions of the mother and witnesses with enabling a swift apprehension.
Tucker is being held in the Cobb County Jail on charges of kidnapping and simple assault. Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the alleged attack.
