Queensland Police have launched an urgent public appeal to locate a man who allegedly approached and touched an 11-year-old girl in Brisbane's west. The incident took place on Westridge Street in Brookfield at approximately 4:30 pm last Thursday.
Details of the Incident
According to police, the man placed his hand on the girl's hip, causing her to stumble and fall. She sustained a minor graze to her knee. The suspect then fled the scene in a white or light-colored vehicle, driving along Rafting Ground Road.
The girl is reported to be safe and well, and the matter was reported to police later that afternoon. Detective Acting Inspector Brendan Blyth stated that any matter involving a child or member of the public is taken seriously.
Description of the Suspect
The man is believed to be aged in his 20s or 30s, Caucasian, with dark-colored hair. He was last seen wearing a light-colored hooded jumper. Police have not reported any conversation between the man and the girl.
Police Appeal for Information
Inspector Blyth noted that a nearby witness comforted the girl after the incident and confirmed she was upset, but did not witness the event. He emphasized that there is no ongoing risk to the community and no further incidents have been reported.
Police are seeking dashcam or CCTV footage from the area around Rafting Ground Road, Moons Lane, and Winrock Street in Brookfield between 4:30 pm and 4:50 pm last Thursday. They are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Safety Reminder for Parents
Inspector Blyth urged parents and guardians to remind children that if strangers approach them in person or online, they should immediately tell their parents and report it to police. 'The more information we have on any of these incidents ultimately helps us prevent things happening and solve reported incidents,' he said.
Police are expected to address the media on Thursday afternoon to provide further updates on the investigation.
