Pasadena, California – Police have released a blurry image extracted from surveillance footage of a man suspected of carrying out a violent sexual assault on a woman sitting in her car outside a restaurant in Pasadena. The incident occurred late Saturday evening on Sierra Madre Villa Avenue, north of Foothill Boulevard, according to officials from the Pasadena Police Department.
During the distressing event at around 8:40 p.m., the suspect entered the woman’s car, brandished a knife, and coerced her to drive to another location in Pasadena, where he sexually assaulted her. Despite the ordeal, the woman managed to fight back, ward off the assailant, and call 911 after he fled the scene.
Described as a Black male between the ages of 30 and 40, approximately 6 feet tall with a heavy build, the suspect was last seen wearing a black face mask, a gray hooded rain jacket, light blue jeans, and black shoes. Armed with a folding knife, he also possesses a distinctive raspy voice and may be transient.
Following the assault, Pasadena resident Lynne Levin-Guzman, a nurse of 20 years, expressed her concerns about the growing frequency of such attacks in the city. Despite the trauma inflicted during the incident, the woman’s actions were praised by authorities for her bravery in resisting the attacker and ensuring her safety.
This assault is the latest in a series of violent sexual assaults, coming soon after two brutal incidents near the canals in Venice. In these attacks, one woman was severely beaten while another sustained significant injuries but is expected to recover. In a related case, Anthony Jones, 29, was recently arrested in San Diego in connection with the crimes, facing charges including forcible rape and attempted murder with a set bail of $3.25 million.
Officials urge anyone with information about the Pasadena incident to contact the Pasadena Police Department at 626-744-4241. Tips can also be provided anonymously to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or online at L.A. Crime Stoppers’ website. Stay updated on the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video by visiting KTLA.