Boston, MA – A 69-year-old man is facing serious charges after allegedly attempting to press a chemical-laced handkerchief over the mouth of a 13-year-old boy in a disturbing daylight encounter described by prosecutors as “bizarre and deeply unsettling.”
Teen Victim Describes Terrifying Moment
The incident occurred just after noon on July 28 at the busy intersection of Dudley and Washington Streets in Roxbury. The victim, a 13-year-old boy whose identity is being protected, said he was waiting for a ride when a man in a Hawaiian shirt approached him with a red handkerchief soaked in an unknown liquid.
“He tried to put it in my face, so I pushed him and then I went to tell the police in the station,” the boy told WBZ-TV.
“It was really scary. My heart was beating fast,” he added.
The child ran to a nearby police station for help, visibly shaken by the encounter.
Suspect Caught Nearby with Key Evidence
Boston police officers quickly responded and located Willie Cowart, 69, of Dorchester, just blocks away. He was wearing a Hawaiian shirt and carrying a red handkerchief matching the boy’s description.
The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that Cowart was arrested and charged with assault with a dangerous weapon (chemical handkerchief). He later pleaded not guilty in court.
Chemicals Found Inside Suspect’s Vehicle
Further investigation led authorities to Cowart’s vehicle, where they discovered chemical cleaning agents, although the specific substances have not been publicly identified.
District Attorney Kevin Hayden described the case as both disturbing and unusual.
“It doesn’t take much imagination to appreciate how frightening it was for this young man… I’m grateful that he suffered no apparent injuries,” Hayden said in a statement.
Judge Releases Suspect with Conditions
Cowart was released on personal recognizance, but the judge ordered him to stay away from the victim and the area where the incident took place. He is scheduled to return to court on October 29 for an appointment of counsel hearing — which may be related to a court-appointed attorney shortage.
Family Keeps Child at Home for Safety
The teen’s parents, still shaken by the incident, have since restricted his movements.
“I can’t go outside,” the boy shared. “My mom told me until I’m 20, I can’t go outside by myself.”
The boy’s family fears for his safety and says the emotional toll has been significant.
What would you do if this happened in your neighborhood? Share your thoughts and reactions in the comments.
