Chatham-Kent Police are investigating a sexual assault in Chatham.

Police say a 16-year-old girl was sitting under the Keil Drive Bridge around 4:30 Wednesday afternoon waiting for a friend when a stranger sat down beside her.

Police say the man allegedly touched the victim’s thigh and grabbed her wrist, but ran off when her friend arrived.

The suspect is described as a white man, approximately 40 years of age, with a tall average build.  He had medium length brown hair that was slicked back and a long thick beard.  He was last seen wearing glasses, an orange shirt and cargo pants.

The Major Crime Unit has taken over the investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Rachele Marineau at rachelem@chatham-kent.ca or 519-436-6600 extension #668.  Anonymous callers may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477.)