In The Wake Of Porter Square Attack, Police Offer Tips For Women To Keep Safe

Although the incident happened in Porter Square, this advice applies to all women, no matter what ward they live in. I, especially, took this advice to heart and will certainly modify my walking and running schedule and practices.
~Courtney O'Keefe


This is Deputy Chief Paul Upton of the Somerville Police Department with an important community safety message for residents of West Somerville, and in the vicinity of Red Line MBTA stations. Last Sunday evening, at about 11:00 p.m., a woman who was walking home from the Porter Square MBTA station, was indecently assaulted. She reported that in the vicinity of Summer Street and Belmont Street, she heard footsteps behind her. As she turned around, an unknown white male knocked her to the ground and indecently assaulted her. The victim was able to pepper spray her assailant causing him to cease his attack and flee the area.

The suspect is described as a white male, 20 to 25 years old, 5 feet 6 inches tall, medium build, brown hair, clean shaven and was wearing a white shirt and shorts.

Although we believe this to be an isolated incident, we want to alert residents, especially women, who may be walking in this area, to be especially vigilant. We encourage women to take common sense precautions, be aware of their surroundings and avoid distractions such as headphones and Ipods. If you carry a cell phone, keep it in an easily accessible place.

The Somerville Police Department is working jointly with other police agencies to identify and apprehend this suspect as quickly as possible.

If you see anyone who is acting suspicious in this area, please do not hesitate to call 911.