A 14-year-old girl was approached and sexually assaulted near a Staten Island shopping center early Saturday morning, according to law enforcement officials. The incident occurred around 9 a.m. outside Empire Outlets in the St. George neighborhood.

Authorities reported that the suspect, described as wearing a brightly colored jacket featuring blue, yellow, and red, engaged the girl and led her into a taxi. The victim was taken to an undisclosed location where the assault took place. The teenager managed to resist the attacker and was able to escape.

Police have identified the suspect as a male, described as wearing a “tacky” or garish jacket, but he remains at large. Investigators are continuing their efforts to locate and apprehend the individual. No further details about the suspect’s identity or the exact location to which the victim was taken have been released.

The New York Police Department is urging anyone with information about the incident or the suspect to come forward. The investigation remains active as authorities work to ensure the safety of the community and to bring the perpetrator to justice.