Police in Cambridge, Mass. are on the lookout for a man accused of assaulting multiple children at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) swimming pool. The incident took place between 7:30 and 8:50 a.m. on Wednesday, according to MIT Police Sergeant David J. O’Connor. Five children under the age of 14 were victims of indecent assault and battery while swimming in the lap pool at the Zesiger Sports and Fitness Center.
MIT spokesperson Kimberly Allen stated that the children were “touched inappropriately by another patron” while visiting the campus to use the pool. The suspect is described as a man around 30 years old with a mustache, last seen wearing a lime green shirt and carrying a duffel bag. The incident was reported to the police the next day at 12:57 p.m.
The Zesiger Sports and Fitness Center is a popular spot for children attending summer camp. However, an email was sent to parents reassuring them that the incidents occurred before the start of camp. Despite this, the news has left many pool-goers feeling uneasy. Beth Wigden, a regular swimmer at MIT’s pool, expressed her surprise at the incident, saying, “I know it happens, but I’ve been swimming here for years. There’s always swim team practice and there’s always little kids running around.”
In light of the incident, MIT’s athletics department is taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of swimmers. Anthony Grant, the university’s director of athletics, announced that an empty swim lane will be left as a buffer between groups of minors and adults. Additionally, signs will be placed around the pool deck with instructions on how to report concerning incidents. The department will also increase staffing to monitor the pool and remind lifeguards to be vigilant.
Grant, who is also a father, expressed his deep concern and commitment to protecting the safety of all individuals using MIT’s facilities, especially children. He stated, “As a father and MIT community member, I am deeply troubled by this report and am committed to protecting the safety of all who use our facilities, particularly children.”
Swimmers who frequent the MIT pool have shared their reactions to the incident. Xing Tian, a pool user, expressed discomfort and concern, saying, “I felt uncomfortable and concerned because it happened to the children. Now when I go to the pool, I’ll pay more attention.” Another swimmer, Luka Govedic, described the incident as “horrible” and expressed hopes for the well-being of the affected children.
Access to the MIT pool requires a badge, indicating that security measures are already in place. Nevertheless, this incident serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. MIT police have urged anyone with information to contact them at 617-253-1212.
The safety of children is of utmost importance, and incidents like these highlight the need for continued efforts to protect minors in public spaces. The swift action taken by MIT’s athletics department demonstrates their commitment to ensuring a safe environment for all swimmers. By implementing additional security measures and increasing staff presence, the university aims to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
It is crucial for parents, guardians, and community members to remain vigilant and report any concerning incidents to the authorities. By working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone, especially vulnerable individuals such as children.
