Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent assault that occurred at Centennial Park in Lawrence on Tuesday. A 25-year-old babysitter was attacked while supervising a 4-year-old child.
Witnesses reported that a woman, believed to be homeless, approached a group of people supervising children on the playground and exhibited aggressive behavior. The victim, concerned for the child’s safety, picked up the child and attempted to leave the area. However, the suspect allegedly struck the victim in the back with a dumbbell multiple times.
The victim managed to escape the situation with the child and contacted police. The suspect was apprehended at the park and arrested on charges of aggravated battery and child endangerment.
The victim declined medical treatment at the scene and is expected to recover. Law enforcement officials are working to determine a motive for the assault but noted the suspect’s erratic behavior during the incident.
