Yarmouth Man Charged After Attempted Sexual Assault At Soccer Game

YARMOUTH, MA — An alleged attempted sexual assault of a 5-year-old at a soccer game at Yarmouth's Peter Homer Park led to a days-long search for the suspect, who was eventually found and faces multiple charges.

Ryan Evans, 27, of South Yarmouth, is charged with assault to rape a child, kidnapping of a child and indecent assault and battery on a child under 14. He will be arraigned in Barnstable District Court on Thursday.

Yarmouth Police responded to Peter Homer Park around 8 p.m. Tuesday after receiving a report that a man attempted to sexually assault a 5-year-old child.

"While at a soccer game on the fields, the unknown man lured the child behind the park’s restrooms where the attempt took place. The child’s screams managed to scare off the suspect and he fled the area," police said.

Multiple officers arrived in the area and began to search for the suspect, later identified by police as Evans, who was seen leaving on an electric bicycle.

Police officials began speaking with the family while Yarmouth Fire/Rescue officials assessed the child for any injuries.

"An extensive search was underway for the suspect with patrols checking neighborhoods, parks, businesses and the bicycle path. While officers were conducting area checks, tips from social media began to come in," police said.

"In response to the event, Yarmouth Police deployed plain clothes officers, bicycle patrol units, and additional resources to not only attempt to locate the suspect, but to provide a higher level of safety and security as well."

Police conducted a vehicle stop around 7 p.m. on Wednesday, when Evans was arrested and taken to the Yarmouth Police Department for processing.

Officials said they are familiar with Evans. In 2021, Evans was charged with unarmed burglary and assault, assault to rape a child, assault and battery, destruction of property and larceny.