Arrest in Mysterious Spray Attack on Woman at Binghamton Store

A Binghamton man faces charges after a woman was sprayed with an unknown substance inside a city supermarket.

Authorities said the incident at the Weis Market at 50 Pennsylvania Avenue was reported shortly before 4 p.m. Thursday.

According to Binghamton police, a man sprayed something on a woman inside the store on the city's South Side. Investigators did not identify what they believe was in the spray. They also did not indicate whether the woman sought medical attention following the incident.

Shortly after the supermarket spray attack, police learned of another incident that happened near Tompkins Street and Jackson Street. Officers were advised that a man inappropriately touched a woman and left the area.

Detectives on Monday identified 22-year-old Hussain Ali Haider of Binghamton as a suspect in both incidents. He was found at his home and taken to police headquarters.

Investigators said they confiscated evidence from Haider's residence when they executed a search warrant. They did not reveal what they found or whether they discovered the substance they believe was used in the supermarket incident.

Haider has been charged with two misdemeanor counts of forcible touching. He also was charged with second-degree harassment, a violation.

Police said the two incidents, along with others, remain under investigation. People with information may contact the Binghamton police detective bureau at (607) 772-7080.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.