PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – Authorities in Pasadena, California are on high alert as they search for a suspect involved in a violent sexual assault. The incident occurred on a Saturday evening when a woman sitting in her car outside a restaurant fell victim to a terrifying attack. The Pasadena Police Department released a surveillance image of the suspect, urging the public’s assistance in locating him.
According to Pasadena Police, the assailant entered the woman’s car, brandished a knife, and forced her to drive to another location where he sexually assaulted her. Despite the harrowing experience, the woman managed to fight back, leading the suspect to flee the scene. Lt. Tim Bundy described the suspect as a dangerous individual with predatory tendencies, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and locating the perpetrator.
The suspect is described as a Black male in his 30s to 40s, approximately 6 feet tall, with a stocky build. He was last seen wearing a black face mask, a gray hooded rain jacket, light blue jeans, and black shoes, armed with a folding knife. Additionally, authorities noted that the suspect has a distinct raspy voice and may be transient.
Residents in the area, like Lynne Levin-Guzman, a nurse, expressed concern over the incident, highlighting the importance of vigilance in seemingly safe neighborhoods like Pasadena. Despite the trauma faced by the victim, police commended her bravery and quick thinking in escaping the attacker.
This alarming assault comes in the wake of other recent attacks, including two brutal sexual assaults near the canals in Venice. In a separate case, a suspect named Anthony Jones was arrested in San Diego for similar charges, including forcible rape and attempted murder. With ongoing investigations, Pasadena Police urge anyone with information to come forward and assist in apprehending the suspect.