The dreary, misty morning on Wednesday mirrored the atmosphere of the close-knit Lingan St., Halifax, neighborhood. The lurking stillness was a stark reminder of the sexual assault on a young woman who was out walking her dog on Sunday, just before sunset.
Halifax Police Chief Edward “Ted” Broderick told The Express that the attack, which appears random, occurred as it was getting dark. He asked neighbors to be aware of their surroundings and to watch out for one another.
Broderick explained that the details of the assault remain restricted, both to protect the victim, who was treated medically for the attack, and for the integrity of the investigation.
The department is investigating every lead and persons of interest, but is asking anyone who may have witnessed something at that time on Sunday or who has information which they think might be helpful, to contact the Halifax Police Department.
The area of a cranberry bog off Lingan Street and a fenced park with a beach are diagonally across from one another. Broderick did not specify the exact location where the assault took place, but urged people to be aware of their own safety wherever they are.
“Besides taking all precautions while in this area, we also need your help. If you were in the area Sunday night and think you saw anything that would help the investigation, please call the station and speak to Officer McDonnell or Officer Schleiff,” Broderick said.
“It’s with regret I have to ask this, but when walking the area after dark, that you do it with a friend, or try to do your activities during the day,” Broderick said in a media post.
Without a suspect in custody, neighbors remain cautious. A woman walking her dog while pushing a baby stroller, told The Express that she would be paying extra attention to her surroundings, but as a general safety rule, she never leaves the main walking area of her street – a safety plan she will continue. The assault has left neighbors on edge.
The neighborhood, made up of many closely spaced former summer cottages on Monponsett Pond, polkadotted with children’s swing sets, and decorated with Christmas lights, is on alert.
Anyone with any information should call the Halifax Police at 781-293-5761.