Predator at Large in Fort Bragg After Home Invasion Assault
Authorities in Fort Bragg are asking for the public’s assistance in locating a suspect who allegedly broke into a home and sexually assaulted a resident in the early morning hours of Saturday, June 21. The Fort Bragg Police Department says the incident occurred around 3:00 a.m. in the 400 block of South Harrison Street.
According to Sergeant McLaughlin, the suspect reportedly knocked on the victim’s window before forcing entry into the home and committing the assault. Surveillance footage in the area captured a man matching the suspect’s description walking near South Harrison and Hazel Streets between 1:30 and 3:30 a.m.
The suspect remains at large and is described as a white male adult between 5’7″ and 6 feet tall, weighing between 160 and 180 pounds. He was last seen wearing a beige sweatshirt, shorts, and leggings. At the time of the assault, he was reportedly wearing a hooded sweatshirt and a neck gaiter-style mask.
When asked whether the victim and suspect knew each other, Sergeant McLaughlin said there is no indication they had any prior connection. He added that, aside from the sexual assault itself, no other motive is currently known.
Police canvassed the surrounding neighborhood and collected video footage from nearby homes but are now asking for additional help from the public. The department has set up a digital evidence portal where community members can upload surveillance footage, photographs, audio recordings, or other relevant digital media. Submissions are immediately flagged for review by the investigating officers.
While Sergeant McLaughlin stopped short of declaring an ongoing public safety threat, he emphasized the importance of vigilance, warning that the suspect could potentially offend again. He urged residents to report any suspicious activity, including knocks at windows or doors in the middle of the night.
“It takes everyone to solve these kinds of crimes,” he said. “Even if you think something is minor—like a strange sound or someone walking down your street who doesn’t seem to belong—please report it. Officers are on duty 24/7.”
The department’s non-emergency line is 707-964-0200, and emergencies should be reported by calling 911.
