WILMINGTON, Delaware (KeynoteUSA) — Police are searching for a suspect after investigators say a boy was sexually assaulted at the YMCA in Wilmington, Delaware, on Thursday.
Authorities are also trying to locate a possible witness to the crime.
It happened at the location on the block of Chestnut Street.
New Castle County Police told Action News the victim was under 12 years old.
“The crime that is alleged at this time is a sexual assault against a child under the age of 12,” said Sergeant Andrea Botterbusch of the New Castle County Police.
Authorities say they have been combing the area for the person accused of sexual assault.
“We know it happened in the bathhouse on the YMCA property next to the pool house,” Botterbusch said. “It came as a 911 call from someone on the scene.”
Police released surveillance footage of the suspect entering the building.
Investigators also released images of a possible witness who was caught on surveillance cameras. He is described as bald and was seen wearing gray shorts without a shirt.
Witness sought in connection with alleged YMCA assault (right)
In the surveillance image, the suspect wanted in this case appears on the left, according to authorities.
In the new image, the suspect is wearing a change of clothes, investigators say.
Officials say the YMCA has informed parents about the situation.
“I know they sent an email to all parents with their safety protocols and are fully cooperating with us during the investigation,” Botterbusch said.
YMCA Senior Director of Marketing and Communications Julie Burns sent the following statement to Action News regarding the incident:
“We are deeply concerned and saddened by the incident that occurred last night at the Hanby Outdoor Center. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and child affected. The safety and well-being of our members and the community remain our top priority and we are cooperating fully with authorities as they continue their search and investigation.”
YMCA officials also clarified that the alleged assault did not take place during summer camp hours.
Crime Stoppers has joined police in offering a reward of up to $5,000 for any information leading to the identification and arrest of the individual in the photo or information leading to an arrest related to the sexual assault of a child.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police immediately.
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