Police are searching for an unidentified man accused of confronting and frightening pedestrians while wearing a distinctive “Chucky” horror-doll mask in Philadelphia. The incidents reportedly took place early on August 12 near 15th and Chestnut streets, close to City Hall. Authorities said at least six people were targeted during a series of encounters that lasted around 15 minutes. Investigators believe the suspect may have been deliberately recording the incidents on a smartphone, possibly for a social media prank or viral video.

According to police, the suspect was seen carrying a lit smartphone while approaching people in the area. In one particularly disturbing encounter, he reportedly stood directly in front of a 40-year-old woman who was out for a morning jog and blocked her path. The masked man allegedly held his phone toward her and repeatedly asked, “Are you ready to die?” The woman became frightened and ran away while calling for help.

The woman was reportedly injured while fleeing from the suspect. Authorities said she suffered a leg injury during her escape, adding to concerns about the potential danger posed by the encounters. Police are treating the incidents seriously as they work to determine whether the suspect's actions were part of an organised prank, an attempt to create online content or simply intended to intimidate strangers.

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The suspect was also reportedly seen entering an eatery shortly after 5:20 am wearing the distinctive Halloween-style Chucky mask. Police Captain Jason Smith said the individual was refused service because of his behaviour. Investigators are now examining surveillance footage from the area and reviewing available information to establish the suspect's movements before and after the reported encounters.

Police describe the suspect as a thin male approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and believed to be between 16 and 20 years old. At the time of the incidents, he was reportedly wearing dark clothing along with the horror-themed mask. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the encounters or recognised the individual to provide information that could assist the investigation.

Investigators are also examining social media platforms as part of their efforts to identify the suspect and determine whether the encounters were recorded. Depending on the findings, the individual could face charges including assault and terroristic threats. The case has drawn attention because of the unusual disguise and the alleged threats made against people who were simply passing through the area.

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