Nova Scotia

Girl, 15, escapes after being held 2 days in North Preston

RCMP have arrested a second male in connection with the case of a 15-year-old girl who was allegedly sexually assaulted and held for two days before escaping a basement in North Preston.

18-year-old man facing sexual assault and weapons charges; RCMP arrest second suspect in Windsor

Investigators in forensic suits searched for evidence at the residence on Clarence Street. (CBC)

RCMP have arrested a second male in connection with the case of a 15-year-old girl from Halifax who was allegedly sexually assaulted and held for two days before escaping a basement in North Preston.

Police were called to Clarence Street Thursday night after reports of gunfire. No one was shot and police arrested an 18-year-old man at the scene.

The investigation revealed that a 15-year-old girl had escaped from a residence on Clarence Street where she'd been held and sexually assaulted. She was found at the scene with her mother and taken to hospital.

"It's discouraging, it's sad," said neighbour Renise Cain. "I'm at a loss for words."

On Friday morning police arrested a second 18-year-old male from North Preston in connection with the case at the courthouse in Windsor.

"We now have a lot of officers on this, of course this is a very serious matter," said Cpl. Scott MacRae of the Halifax RCMP. 

Shots were allegedly fired near this home in North Preston Thursday night. (Elizabeth Chiu/CBC)

"We are working with the youth to piece together exactly what she went through. One can only imagine the ordeal of being confined and sexually assaulted."

The suspect is facing a series of charges, including sexual assault, forcible confinement and weapons-related offences.

"The motives are on the table," said MacRae. "We are going to look at all avenues including whether there is a prostitution angle to this."

Investigators are holding the scene and continue to collect evidence.

The two young men arrested will remain in custody for Saturday and Sunday. Police say they are expecting to lay charges next week.