In a startling incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, a 16-year-old boy has been charged in connection with a sexual assault that took place on a bus headed to St. Catharines.

The assault occurred early Friday morning, shortly after 7 a.m., when a woman boarded the bus near Morrison Street and Dorchester Road in Niagara Falls.

While riding, she fell victim to a shocking act of violence by an unknown male, as confirmed by Niagara Regional Police in their press release.

Just 40 minutes later, the woman exited the bus on Welland Avenue by Geneva Street in St. Catharines, only to find the accused getting off the bus right behind her. Eyewitnesses report that he fled the scene, running off in a northwesterly direction.

Thanks to swift police action, the suspect was apprehended later that same day and charged with sexual assault. However, it's crucial to note that these charges are yet to be tested in court.

Due to legal protections under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the teenager’s identity remains confidential.

Authorities are urging anyone with further information about this harrowing event to reach out, either to them or to Crime Stoppers, which allows for anonymous tips.