Man attacks 15-year-old girl in museum bathroom

BOSTON, MA – An alarming incident unfolded at the Museum of Science when a 15-year-old girl was allegedly attacked in a bathroom by a Somerville man. The event occurred on Sunday, October 6, resulting in the arrest and charging of Yandri Hernandez, 24, with serious offenses, including kidnapping, strangulation or suffocation, and assault and battery. He remains in custody without bail.

The victim recounted entering the first-level restroom while her friend waited outside. As she exited a stall to wash her hands, she was reportedly grabbed by an assailant who covered her mouth. Despite the chilling encounter, she managed to scream and escape the bathroom. Shortly after, the suspect fled the scene.

Video footage provided a crucial lead, showing a man, later identified as Hernandez, seated in the museum’s lobby for approximately an hour before proceeding to the bathroom. Local law enforcement received images of the suspect, aiding Cambridge Police in identifying Hernandez by a distinctive tattoo on his forearm. His arrest followed in Somerville on Tuesday.

Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden emphasized the harrowing nature of the incident, particularly for a teenage victim enjoying a day out. Hayden credited Hernandez’s quick apprehension to the detailed description provided by the victim and the efficient investigative efforts.

Hernandez is scheduled for a dangerousness hearing on Friday as the legal process progresses.

In response, the Museum of Science issued a statement reinforcing its commitment to safety, commending the swift collaboration between its internal public safety team and law enforcement to swiftly address the situation.