On Thursday, November 1, a 13-year-old female reported to Tyrone Police that around 3:30 p.m. she had been walking home from school and turned onto Wertz Alley behind Bressler’s Market.
At this time she noticed a white male wearing an orange hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans walking behind her. A short while later the male grabbed her from behind and held her arms at her sides.
The victim reported that the male repeatedly told her she was pretty and attempted to remove her sweatshirt. The victim stated that she kicked the actor in the shins and then ran home after a brief struggle.
Other than the clothing description, the victim stated the actor was short, possibly around 5 feet, two inches tall and that he had a deep voice. The victim also believes the actor to be in his twenties.
There is no indication at this time that this incident is connected with similar incidents reported earlier this year in January.
On Friday, November 2, shortly before 3 p.m., officers of the Tyrone Police Department were patrolling the area of Wertz Alley and North Avenue in relation to the assault the previous day. At that time, a white male wearing a dark colored hooded sweatshirt with the hood up was sitting along the alley.
When officers approached the individual he ran between houses toward W. 15th Street when officers were within approximately 60 feet of the subject.
Officers immediately searched the area and were unable to locate the individual. An eyewitness stated that the male ran to W. 15th Street where he lost sight of him. It is unknown whether the subject continued running or possibly lives in the immediate area.
It is also unknown if this incident is related to the previous day’s events.
However, due to the serious nature of the incident and the similarities as to location, time and description of the subject, the police are investigating every and any lead to determine if these are indeed related events.
At this time, the police department is asking students not to walk alone and to stay to more heavily traveled areas. Avoid alleys and shortcuts while walking home from school.
Anyone with information is acted to contact the Tyrone Police Department at 684-1364. Concerned parents can also contact the Police Department at the above number.
An investigation is ongoing.
