A man is being sought after allegedly approaching a boy in a public toilet near Narrabeen Lagoon.
Shortly after 7.00pm yesterday evening (Sunday, 28 December), a teenage boy sought assistance from his parents after he was approached inside a public toilet block at Middle Creek Reserve at the Wakehurst Parkway, Cromer.
According to reports, the 13-year-old boy was in a toilet stall when he noticed a man peering in at him. The boy confronted the man, who was not known to him, and called for help. The boy’s father is understood to have come over and some form of altercation is believed to have ensued.
Other people were in the area at the time, walking and riding around the lagoon trail, as well as at the popular picnic area at sunset. As they have become drawn to the disturbance, the man is reported to have fled the scene with facial injuries.
The man is understood to have run up to the Wakehurst Parkway, where traffic has been stopped in the middle of the road. Reports indicate the man sought assistance from passing motorists, and he has left the scene in a vehicle.
Police were called and officers attached to Northern Beaches Police Area Command attended, speaking with the boy and his father. Police have not released a description of the man, but it is understood he may have spoken with an accent.
A crime scene was established around the toilet block and a forensic examination of the scene was undertaken into the night. A vehicle left parked at the scene is also expected to be subject to further inquiries to determine if it was being driven by the man.
Police have asked that anyone with information about the incident, in particular who may have stopped on the road and been asked for a lift by the man, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Update 4.00pm Monday, 29 December 2025:
A bystander who was present has described the man as being of medium build, in his late 40s or early 50s, with short greying hair.
Images: Northern Beaches Advocate
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There is an updated version of this article with more up to date information.
NSW Police are seeking public assistance in relation to this matter. If you have any information that may assist them with their inquiries, please contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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