Rape in Queens: Police have arrested a person of interest in connection with the rape of a 13-year-old girl in Kissena Park

FLUSHING, Queens (WABC) – A “person of strong interest” is in custody in connection with the rape of a 13-year-old girl in Kissena Park.

No charges have been filed and the investigation is ongoing.

Within the last 24 hours, the police released new pictures of the wanted man.

Last week, two teenagers’ play turned into a nightmare when, according to police, the man approached the two 13-year-olds with a machete-like knife and chased them into a forest in Jamaica, Queens.

According to police, he snatched their mobile phones, tied their hands together and then abused the young girl.

Investigators found the shoelace used to tie the children’s hands together, as well as a water bottle left behind by the alleged rapist.

The suspect in the case has a striking tattoo, which police say is on the chest of a wild boar with red eyes.

The police asked the public for help and responded quickly.

“We have decided to form a tenants’ association. We need to do a neighbourhood watch and we are forming a tenants’ association to protect our children,” said one resident.

These new developments come after the NYPD offered a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect.

Patrol Chief John Chell and Deputy Detective Kaz Daughtry will appear on Eyewitness News Mornings at 10 to discuss developments in the investigation.

This is a developing story. Check back later for updates.

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