To easily rule out the smithman=occulter theory simply look at the hundreds of solved occultation cases available to you. Even where the outdoor pedestrian transport distance is just a few metres to a vehicle just outside the residence, always the perp always uses a bag or case or some equivalent such as a curtain or a bike cover or whatever is available, and the same applies to cases with longer pedestrian distances and no vehicle.
Pegasus
I do think that often history repeats itself, but also there are things in most abductions that are unique.
Because of this I personally do not think that you can depend upon whether such a thing has happened before, or not.
I agree to a point. Always keep it in your mind that such a way of taking an abducted child out is rare, but do not be ruled by it. Instead look for reasons why an abducted child may have been carried thru the streets.
Your idea that the man was an innocent father who had parked his car on one of the big car parks and was walking home with his little one is feasible
And so is my idea, that the car was prevented from picking up because of Jane Tanner witnessing the abduction + Gerry and Jez being on the route the car had to take.... and frightening the driver off.
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There way be other reasons that he was carrying fairly openly. Reasons that we haven't thought of.