In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the community of Busto Arsizio, a 14-year-old girl was brutally assaulted by a 21-year-old man she had met online. The attack occurred on Monday evening, April 14, 2025, in an abandoned area behind the town's train station.
The young girl, who is of Peruvian origin, had been communicating with her assailant on social media for some time before they decided to meet. According to reports, they met that afternoon, took a walk, and then the situation turned tragic when the man led her to a deserted shed.
Witnesses say the victim's desperate screams were heard by a nearby resident, who immediately called for help. "I heard her cries and knew I had to do something," the resident stated. Police arrived at the scene while the assault was still ongoing, managing to apprehend the suspect in the act. The 21-year-old, a resident of Rozzano and of North African descent, reportedly resisted arrest, prompting officers to call for backup to subdue him.
Upon arrival, the police found the suspect still attacking the girl. The victim was subsequently taken to the hospital, where doctors assessed her injuries and assigned her a prognosis of 50 days due to the violent nature of the assault.
The 21-year-old has been charged with aggravated sexual assault, resisting a public official, and causing bodily harm. He was taken into custody and is awaiting a preliminary hearing before the judge in Busto Arsizio.
This incident highlights a troubling trend in society, as reports indicate that sexual violence has surged by 35% from 2020 to Spring 2024. The increase has raised alarms among local authorities and community leaders, who are grappling with how to address this growing issue.
In light of this incident, police officials have reiterated the importance of vigilance when meeting individuals from online platforms. "While social media can help people connect, it also poses significant risks, especially for young individuals. Parents and guardians should emphasize the importance of safety and caution when engaging with strangers online," a police spokesperson advised.
The community of Busto Arsizio is left reeling from this violent act, with many residents expressing their outrage and concern for the young victim. Local leaders are calling for more awareness and preventive measures to protect children from similar situations in the future.
As the investigation continues, community members are urged to come forward with any additional information regarding the incident. The police are committed to ensuring justice for the victim and preventing future occurrences of such heinous crimes.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking within the digital landscape, especially for the younger population. As discussions about online safety and the implications of social media continue, the hope is that lessons can be learned to prevent further tragedies.
