The New York Police Department (NYPD) is offering a $10,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest of a suspect who sexually assaulted a 13-year-old girl in broad daylight at Kissena Park, Queens. The brazen attack took place on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at approximately 3:30 p.m. (Fox News, 2024; New York Post, 2024).

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male in his 20s, approximately 5-foot-5, with curly hair and braces on his teeth. He also bears a distinctive tattoo of a boar or bull with red eyes on his chest. At the time of the assault, he was last seen wearing a black T-shirt, black sweatpants, red sneakers, and carrying a green backpack (New York Post, 2024).

According to the police, the suspect approached the 13-year-old girl and her male friend, also 13, wielding a machete-style blade. He coerced them into a secluded, wooded area of the park where he tied their hands with shoelaces before sexually assaulting the girl. After committing the assault, he stole their phones and fled the scene (New York Post, 2024; Fox News, 2024).

Despite the traumatic ordeal, the teens managed to return to their nearby school and report the attack. They were taken to a hospital and are now in stable condition (Fox News, 2024).

In response to this horrific crime, the NYPD has deployed over 60 investigators and significantly increased their presence in and around Kissena Park as part of their efforts to apprehend the suspect. The reward offer serves as an additional measure to encourage anyone with valuable information to come forward (New York Post, 2024).

This incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, who are understandably alarmed by the audacity of the midday attack in a popular recreational area. Parents and residents are calling for heightened security measures in the park to prevent such incidents in the future.

Authorities are urging anyone who might have seen the suspect or anything suspicious around the time of the attack to report their observations immediately. The police particularly emphasize the importance of the suspect's unique physical characteristics, such as his tattoo and braces, which could be crucial in identifying and capturing him.

Local residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement. The NYPD stresses that community involvement is pivotal to ensuring public safety and bringing the perpetrator to justice.

Anyone with information can contact the Crime Stoppers hotline. Even the smallest detail could significantly aid the ongoing investigation and help prevent further criminal activities.

The NYPD remains committed to maintaining the safety of public spaces and is leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to resolve this case. Updates will be provided as the investigation develops and more information becomes available.

As the search continues, the solidarity between the community and law enforcement will be crucial in ensuring justice for the victims and enhancing the overall security of the area.