UPDATE [3 p.m.]: Lake Travis ISD informs that the individual who offered the students a ride to school is a parent and district employee. 

After receiving the District’s notification, he came forward and said he was driving his own child to school when he noticed other students running to catch the bus and that he had no ill intent.  

New letter sent to parents:

Dear Lake Travis ISD Parents and Guardians,

We are relieved to inform you that the student encounter with a stranger in the West Cypress Hills neighborhood reported this morning has been positively resolved.

The individual who offered the students a ride to school is a parent and district employee.  After receiving the District’s notification, the individual came forward and indicated he was driving his own child to school when he noticed other students running to catch the bus.  He had no ill intent.  

Student and staff safety is our highest priority. The actions of the two girls who reported the incident to their school staff and the rapid response by the Travis County Sheriff’s Office are to be commended.  We cannot stress enough the importance of reminding your children to be aware of their surroundings, not to approach strangers, and to report any suspicious behavior to any school employee or local law enforcement immediately.

Sincerely, 

Marco Alvarado, Director of Communications

PREVIOUS STORY:

AUSTIN, Texas — Two West Cypress Hill Elementary students say they were approached by a stranger in the West Cypress Hills neighborhood.

The two female students described the suspect as a white male in his 40s and driving a white extended cab pickup truck.  The individual offered the girls a ride to school. The girls replied ‘no’ and the male drove off.  

The school district is working with law enforcement officials who are investigating the encounter. Travis County Sheriff’s Office deputies will provide extra patrol throughout the West Cypress Hills neighborhood and surrounding area.

Travis ISD reminds the community and students, “If you see something, say something.”

This is a developing story. Stay with Spectrum News for updates as they become available.