Attempted rape in Central Park: Police identify person of interest in attack on woman

CENTRAL PARK, Manhattan (WABC) — The New York Police Department said it has identified a person of interest in connection with the alleged attempted rape of a woman in Central Park on Saturday morning.

Details of the person involved have not yet been released.

The attack occurred around 5:10 on Saturday at 85 East Drive near Lasker Rink and the pool, which is under renovation.

According to the New York Police Department, the suspect approached a 38-year-old woman, pushed her over a metal fence, punched her repeatedly in the face, and then tried to rape her.

Officers say the suspect then fled the park on his bicycle, heading north on 5th Avenue.

Emergency services transported the victim to a local hospital in stable condition.

Although New Yorkers try not to blame the victim, they were concerned that she left when it was dark.

“I wouldn’t be here at 5 a.m. or as soon as it starts to get dark. I’m going home because it’s not safe to be out here now that it’s already dark,” resident Nancy Moore said.

This summer, another woman got into a fight with another would-be rapist while trying to sunbathe in Central Park. An arrest was made in this case. The two crime scenes were located very close to each other, on the northern edge of the city’s crown jewel.

“I think it’s definitely a good idea to always walk with someone, especially when the sun isn’t shining because you never know what might happen. And that’s unfortunate,” said Michaela Barratt, a park regular.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers tip line at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).

READ ALSO: A New Jersey man is shocked when his ambulance bill goes to collections two years later

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