Teen Girl Chased in Potwin Neighborhood Sparks Community Outrage and Arrest
Topeka, KS – March 4, 2025 – A frightening incident near Topeka’s Potwin neighborhood has left residents shaken but also highlighting the community’s vigilance. Multiple witnesses intervened when a teenage girl was reportedly chased by a man in the area, ultimately leading to his arrest later that evening.
The incident, which was first reported on Facebook by the girl’s mother, quickly gained traction as neighbors and concerned citizens shared their experiences and insights about the suspect, identified as Christian Marquis Wakolee. Wakolee, who has a documented history of prior arrests, was booked into Shawnee County Jail on outstanding Topeka bench warrants.
The Incident
According to social media accounts and a police report, the teenage girl was walking when she was approached by a man who began pursuing her. She managed to escape, thanks to the intervention of multiple individuals who witnessed the situation unfold.
Several community members have since come forward, sharing similar encounters with Wakolee and other unsettling incidents in the area. One woman recounted that her daughter was also approached by a man while walking home from school the same day, but she managed to escape by running home.
Who is Christian Marquis Wakolee?
Wakolee, 28, has a history of legal troubles in Topeka. His arrest records indicate multiple prior bookings in Shawnee County, including charges related to possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to comply with police orders, and multiple bench warrants. His latest arrest on March 4, 2025, followed a series of community warnings and reports of suspicious activity in the Potwin neighborhood.
Publicly available records show that Wakolee was a graduate of Highland Park High School’s Class of 2015 in Topeka. While details of his recent activities remain unclear, several local residents have alleged that he has been a source of concern in the neighborhood for some time.
Community Reaction and Concerns
The event has ignited conversations about neighborhood safety in Topeka. Many Facebook users praised the quick-thinking Good Samaritans who stepped in to protect the young girl, while others called for increased police presence and community action. Some suggested forming a neighborhood watch to prevent future incidents, while others emphasized the need for mental health support and intervention for individuals with a history of instability.
Several residents pointed out that Wakolee had been seen acting erratically in recent weeks. One neighbor mentioned that he had frequently run up and down the streets, while another described past interactions where he had attempted to sell random items or loitered near homes.
What Happens Next?
While Wakolee was arrested on existing bench warrants, it is unclear whether additional charges will be filed related to the March 4 incident. Authorities have yet to release a formal statement detailing their investigation, but the family of the teenage girl is urging witnesses to come forward and provide statements to help build a stronger case.
A Call for Action
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community awareness. Many residents have voiced frustration with what they perceive as a rise in crime and suspicious activity in Topeka’s historic neighborhoods. Others, however, caution against rushing to conclusions, emphasizing the need for due process and mental health evaluations for individuals with troubled histories.
For now, the young girl’s family remains grateful to those who helped her in a terrifying moment. In a heartfelt Facebook post, her mother wrote:
“Words cannot come close to expressing my thanks to the several people that helped my teenage daughter being chased by a man today near the Potwin area! You ALL might have literally saved her life!!”
As the investigation continues, residents of Topeka are left reflecting on how best to protect their community—and each other.
If you witnessed this incident or have additional information, authorities encourage you to contact the Topeka Police Department.
