Berklee College police locate suspect wanted in 4 assaults near campus
BOSTON – Police located a suspect after four people said they were assaulted in three incidents near Berklee College of Music on Saturday.
One person said they were assaulted around 5:45 p.m. in the area of Boylston and Hemenway streets. Berklee College Police said the victim declined medical treatment.
Two other people later said they were assaulted in the area of Haviland Street. They were treated on scene. Boston police also said a fourth victim was attacked on Boylston Street. They were not seriously hurt.
"Berklee does an amazing job at making sure we feel safe and making sure we're updated on certain things. It's scary but it's Boston," said Berklee freshman Sophia Poata.
Officers searched the area but could not find a suspect. Around 11 p.m., police identified the suspect and issued them a summons to appear in court.
"Incidents such as this are not common on and around campus but when they do occur they can cause stress and negatively impact our community's sense of safety and security," the school said in a statement.
Jalal Galha lives in the area and said the incidents are out of character for the neighborhood.
"I'm shocked. Never heard anything happen here before. First time I've heard that. I was nervous to be honest. Most of the time it's a safe neighborhood," he said. "I heard the noise. Just screaming, a loud scream. I thought people weekend, having a good time. I didn't think anything weird."