15 Year Old Girl Attacked In Bathroom At Boston Museum Of Science

This incident is a powerful reminder that danger can strike anywhere—even in places where we feel completely safe, like a museum. We often let our guard down in public spaces that seem secure, but predators can be lurking anywhere. It reinforces the importance of teaching women and girls to stay aware and trust their instincts, even in familiar settings.

On Sunday, October 6th, a terrifying incident occurred at Boston’s Museum of Science when a 15-year-old girl was reportedly attacked in a bathroom. The suspect, Yandri Hernandez, 24, from Somerville, has been charged with kidnapping, strangulation or suffocation, and assault and battery. He is being held without bail.

The victim told police that she had entered the bathroom while her friend waited outside. As she exited a stall to wash her hands, she felt a hand cover her mouth. The man didn’t speak, but he tried to restrain her. Luckily, she was able to scream and escape the bathroom. Hernandez followed her out but quickly fled the scene.

This young girl’s quick thinking and ability to scream and run saved her from further harm. We emphasize the importance of self-defense techniques that focus on breaking free, drawing attention, and escaping quickly. These simple skills can make all the difference in a life-threatening situation.

Surveillance footage shows Hernandez sitting in a lobby near the bathroom for about an hour before entering. The next day, police identified him through a distinctive tattoo on his forearm, and he was arrested in Somerville on Tuesday.

Predators often watch and wait for an opportunity, just as Hernandez did. This highlights the importance of situational awareness. We teach women to scan their environment, recognize suspicious behavior, and avoid becoming an easy target. Understanding what to look for can prevent attacks before they happen.

Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden praised the quick actions of law enforcement and the bravery of the young victim in helping identify the suspect. Hernandez is due back in court for a dangerousness hearing on Friday.

The Museum of Science issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to providing a safe environment and thanked its internal security team and law enforcement for their quick response.

While public spaces must prioritize security, we also need to take responsibility for our own safety. At Protect Her Path, we advocate for equipping women and girls with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to protect themselves. Empowerment through awareness and self-defense training can help prevent situations like this or minimize their impact.

source: cbsnews.com