Latrobe Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating after a 10-year-old boy was approached by a man in Morwell on Thursday.
The boy was riding his bike with his younger brother on Maude Street when they were approached by a man about 5pm.
Noticing the man's suspicious behaviour, the boy told his little brother to run home.
The man began walking towards the victim while putting on a face mask and attempted to grab his arm.
The boy managed to pull away before the man made contact, which spooked the offender who walked back to his car parked on Grant Street and drove off.
The boy ran home and notified his mother and police were called.
Police are searching for an older model dark grey or black 4WD ute with peeling paint.
The ute had tarpaulins and tools in the back and blew smoke out the exhaust when it drove away.
The offender is perceived to be Caucasian, 183cm tall with a thin build, pale skin and short red/ginger hair.
He was wearing dark clothing and a black ski or hunting-style mask.
Detectives are investigating and urge any witnesses or anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
