CHARLOTTE, N.C. — An Amazon delivery driver was sexually assaulted by a man who allegedly had a hatchet at a Whole Foods grocery store in Uptown Charlotte on Friday, according to documents obtained by WCNC Charlotte Monday.
The reported assault happened on East Brooklyn Village Avenue near the intersection with South College Street, according to the report from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.
The suspect allegedly pulled the victim into a bathroom stall, tried to rape her, and threatened her with a hatchet. The victim was able to break free. The suspect, 28-year-old Samari Wright, was arrested and remains in jail on a $230,000 bond.
“We should not have to fear that we're going to be in a bathroom and there’s a predator willing to harm us." Lauren Teacher, an Uptown Charlotte resident, expressed to WCNC Charlotte.
“No one and nowhere is immune to sexual assault," Emily Barnhardt, a clinician and coordinator with Safe Alliance, said. "It can happen to anyone, anywhere."
Barnhardt said the Safe Alliance organization works with police, the district attorney's office, and the health care system to
CMPD officers were not able to find the hatchet allegedly used by the suspect, investigators told WCNC Charlotte's Lexi Wilson. They were however able to find the case for the hatchet.
The official police report for the assault listed two victims: One woman who reported the incident and was treated for minor injuries at the scene, and another person who was not injured.
On Tuesday, Amazon sent the following statement to WCNC Charlotte:
“We’re very relieved that she is physically alright and are working to support her as she recovers from this horrific incident. We’re also working with the police as they investigate this terrible crime.”
Safe Alliance wants victims to know they're not alone and that it's not their fault. Safe Alliance resources are available 24/7 on their Hope Line at 980-771-HOPE.
WCNC Charlotte is committed to reporting on the issues facing the communities we serve. We tell the stories of people working to solve persistent social problems. We examine how problems can be solved or addressed to improve the quality of life and make a positive difference. WCNC Charlotte is seeking solutions for you. Send your tips or questions to newstips@wcnc.com.
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