A 35-year-old homeless man is back in custody after allegedly kidnapping and raping a 15-year-old girl near a Northgate bus stop. This marks the suspect’s fourth arrest in just two years, drawing fresh scrutiny toward the local justice system’s handling of repeat offenders.
The Incident On Monday morning near NE 103rd Street and 5th Avenue NE, the suspect reportedly approached the victim—a 10th-grade student—on a bicycle. After engaging her in conversation and learning her age, he allegedly lured her into a nearby wooded area. The victim told investigators she felt uneasy but followed him because she was afraid of his potential reaction if she refused. Once secluded, the man allegedly forced himself on her until she managed to scream and flee, prompting the suspect to escape on his bike.
The Investigation and Arrest The victim was treated for minor injuries at Seattle Children’s Hospital. The breakthrough in the case came from an unlikely source: Seattle firefighters. While responding to the scene, the fire crew spotted a man nearby engaging in public defecation. When they confronted him, he discarded his shirt—which perfectly matched the description provided by the victim and a witness who had seen the pair leave the bus stop.
Seattle Police used this information to track the suspect down near Aurora Avenue North, where he was arrested roughly two hours after the attack.
A History of Leniency The case has sparked outrage due to the suspect’s extensive recent criminal history. His three prior arrests since 2024 include:
- Felony Robbery (2024): Reduced to a misdemeanor.
- Assault (2025): Allegedly biting a security guard during a shoplifting attempt; the case was referred to the City Attorney’s office.
- Domestic Violence & Fentanyl Possession (2026): Diverted into a therapeutic program rather than resulting in jail time.
Official Response Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes called the attack “unacceptable,” emphasizing that children should be able to travel the city without fear. While the suspect has not yet been formally charged in this latest incident, a judge found probable cause to hold him in the King County Jail for investigation of rape and kidnapping. He also faces outstanding warrants from Puyallup and Snohomish County.
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