Police looking for armed man who threatened child during assault attempt in Mesa

MESA, AZ — Police are asking for your help after a reported sexual assault attempt involving a juvenile victim in Mesa last month.

According to Silent Witness, the incident occurred on Saturday, Feb. 3 around 9 p.m. at an apartment near 75th Place and University Drive.

A man reportedly threatened a 12-year-old girl with a knife and attempted to sexually assault her, police say.

The suspect fled from the scene in an unknown direction and has not been located.

Officials describe the suspect as a Black man about 5’10” with a medium build. He reportedly had dark spiky hair and a goatee that was longer and thicker around the chin line. At the time of the incident, the suspect was wearing a black hoodie with a white logo, dark pants, and a black hunting-style backpack. He was armed with a knife.

Anyone with information is asked to come forward and report it to Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (480-TESTIGO for Spanish) or on their website. A reward of up to $1,000 is offered.