Oceanside CA— On June 22, at approximately 7:30 pm, an 8-year-old boy (victim) was playing by himself directly behind his residence between the 4000 block of Olive Drive and the Sprinter Tracks. The victim was approached by a light-skinned Hispanic male who appeared to be approximately 20 years old. The suspect talked with the victim for several minutes and without warning or provocation grabbed him around the neck. The suspect held the victim with such force that the victim could not breathe or yell. The suspect fled the area after the assault. The victim immediately contacted his parents; the Oceanside Police Department responded to investigate.
The victim had visible injuries consistent with the statement he provided to investigators. At this point of the investigation it appears to be an isolated incident and the reason for the assault is unknown. The suspect was described as approximately 5-7 with a heavy build and short hair and is wanted for felony assault. Based on the conversation with the victim, it appeared the suspect was possibly a transient who lived in a nearby field.
If you recognize the suspect or have information about the incident please contact Detective Steve Stracke at 760-435-4703