Sexual assault at Flat Branch Park

(COLUMBIA, MO) -

Columbia Police officers responded to 400 Locust Street, Flat Branch Park, at 2:30 p.m. today in reference to a sexual assault.

The investigation into this incident is very early-on. At this time, the preliminary investigation has revealed a 14-year-old female victim was present at the park with her friends. The victim had separated from her friends in the park and a short time later the victim's friends heard the victim screaming nearby. The victim reported she had been sexually assaulted by a male suspect who the friends observed quickly leaving the park in a southbound direction. Upon officers' and EMS personnel's arrival, the victim was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Columbia Police detectives have taken over the investigation and a forensic interview at the Child Advocacy Center is being arranged. The suspect and victim's relationship, if any, is unknown at this time.

The suspect is described as a white male in his mid-40's, approximately 6' tall with a thin build and a large mole on his forehead. The investigation is on-going.

If you have any information or where in the area around the time of the incident, please contact the Columbia Police Department, or call CrimeStoppers at (573) 875-TIPS to remain anonymous.

2016-011858

Location: 400 Locust Street