Brockton police search for suspect who sexually assaulted girl, 13, on way home from school

BROCKTON — Brockton Police and School Police are investigating a sexual assault involving a 13-year-old girl who was approached while walking home from school on Tuesday, according to police.

The teen was walking home from West Middle School on Tuesday, Sept. 17, when a man approached her in the driveway of 279 West Elm St., Brockton police spokesperson Darren Duarte said in a written statement.

"The victim managed to escape after a brief struggle and fled to her home," he said.

The man is described as "a black male in his 20s, wearing a black shirt with multicolored lettering, gray pants, missing two front teeth, and riding a blue bicycle with white lettering," according to police.

School Police Officers were notified of the incident today, and investigators are currently canvassing the area, Duarte said.

"We are working closely with the Brockton Police Department to support the student and family affected by this deeply concerning incident and will work with the police to help in identifying a suspect," Interim Superintendent Priya Tahiliani said in the written statement.

"We have notified our school community and encourage students to remain vigilant and report anything they find concerning to a trusted adult."

Staff writer Kathy Bossa can be reached by email at kbossa@enterprisenews.com. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Enterprise today.

This article originally appeared on The Enterprise: 13-year-old girl sexually assaulted on way home from school in Brockton