Suspect Tries To Sexually Assault 28-Year-Old Jogger In Huntington Beach
HUNTINGTON BEACH (CBSLA.com) — Police are searching for a suspect who tried to sexually assault a 28-year-old jogger in Huntington Beach.
The victim's boyfriend said she was running in the area of Huntington Village Lane and Center Avenue around 6:45 a.m. last Wednesday when she noticed a man following her, authorities said.
The woman then fled toward the Artisan Apartments, where she lives.
She ran inside an unlocked gate, hoping he wouldn't enter.
The suspect, however, followed her.
"He tore her shirt, threw her to the ground, grabbed her and assaulted her. Thank God there's a neighbor who happened to be awake and right there. It's pretty shocking to think something like this could happen in the middle of our community, in our complex. Luckily, he came out, heard her screaming and yelling, and the guy immediately got up and took off running," said the unidentified boyfriend.
Police released a composite sketch of the suspect based on two witness accounts. He was described as Hispanic, 5 feet 10 inches to 5 feet 11 inches tall, 140 pounds, with short dark hair.
The man was wearing a light grey T-shirt, dark jeans and black shoes with orange laces.
Female residents of the apartment complex are worried about walking or running alone.
"I pay a lot of money to live in here. It's a really nice place. You wouldn't expect this in this kind of community," said Tamara Smith.
Anyone with information about the incident was encouraged to contact Det. Tunstall of the Huntington Beach Police Department at (714) 536-5995.
