Driver arrested as video shows ‘attempted abduction’ of bikini-clad barista zips through window

Police in Washington state have arrested a man seen on surveillance video trying to kidnap a bikini-clad barista through a window.

The Auburn Police Department shared footage of the incident Monday, asking for the public’s help in identifying the man who tried to grab the barista and pull her into his vehicle in the early morning hours of Jan. 16.

The suspect, who has not yet been identified by authorities, was arrested after “overwhelming support from the community,” police said Tuesday afternoon.

Investigators arrested the suspect at his Auburn home and after searching his vehicle found evidence linking him to the incident, Auburn police spokesman Colby Crossley told KIRO-TV.

Earlier, the police department said the suspect was seen trying to “drag the victim out the window using a zip-loop device.”

“The victim was able to fight off the attacker. The suspect has a unique tattoo on his left forearm that appears to read “Chevrolet,” police added.

The video shows the man grabbing the barista’s hand as she hands over what appears to be money, but she manages to pull her hand away, prompting the suspect to drive off in his pickup truck.

The incident reportedly happened at Beankini Espresso Auburn, a drive-thru cafe located near Seattle where baristas wear bikinis as part of the establishment’s theme.

The victim told the Daily Mail that the incident was a “random act” and that she had never seen the man who tried to kidnap her before.

“Our owner allows us to close the window for each client and handle each situation in the way we feel comfortable. We are allowed to refuse service to anyone for any reason,” she told the publication, adding that she had worked for Beankini Espresso Auburn for nine years.

Regarding the baristas at the bar, Mr. Crosley told KIRO that “they are in a vulnerable position because they’re usually manning these places by themselves in the early hours of the morning when it’s dark outside.” He added that the victim “did a great job of protecting herself and to fight this man.’

The department asked that anyone with information about the suspect call their tip line at 253-288-7403.