Woman allegedly assaulted at JFK/UMass T stop

DORCHESTER, Mass. (WHDH) -- Investigators are searching for a man who allegedly attacked a woman in broad daylight near the JFK/UMass T stop in Dorchester.

Boston Police are keeping close tabs on the JFK/UMass T stop after a woman says she was attacked Tuesday in a nearby parking lot.

The violent assault has many T riders on high alert, but it’s the time of day the victim says she was attacked that has many worried.

“I’m shocked. I’ve always considered this a really safe neighborhood,” said Verdie Culbreath.

The victim, a student at UMass Boston, says she was just trying to catch a train.

The college has already sent email alerts warning students of the attempted sexual assault.

Most shocking to riders: the victim says she was attacked in broad daylight, at 12:30 in the afternoon.

“That makes it worse because it’s like, broad daylight -- imagine what can happen at nighttime,” said Elsa Monteiro.

The assault has left many on edge.

Ally Riley just moved to this Dorchester neighborhood.

“It’s unfortunate to live a neighborhood where you have to worry about that stuff. I recently moved to the area and I like it here, but it’s scary,” said Ally Riley.

Police are urging women to walk in groups, and be aware of their surroundings. Women say they're heeding that advice.

“When you walk and just try to use their headphones and be focused when you’re walking, so I will do the same thing,” said Rosa Casasola.

The suspect is described as a man in his 20s with a heavy build. Police are hoping anyone with information contacts them.