PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – In a shocking incident that unfolded outside a restaurant in Pasadena, a woman was subjected to a violent sexual assault by a man who entered her car with a knife. The incident occurred on Sierra Madre Villa Avenue on Saturday night, leaving the victim traumatized. The Pasadena Police Department has released a grainy image from surveillance footage to seek the public’s help in identifying the suspect.
Lt. Tim Bundy from the Pasadena Police Department described the suspect as a Black male in his 30s to 40s, approximately 6 feet tall with a heavy-set build. The man 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 mentioned that the suspect has a distinctive raspy voice and may be transient.
The Pasadena community, shocked by the incident, has expressed concern and solidarity with the victim. Lynne Levin-Guzman, a longtime Pasadena resident and nurse, emphasized the importance of awareness and vigilance in the face of such violence. According to her, incidents like these have been occurring more frequently lately, highlighting the need for community support and proactive safety measures.
Despite the traumatic nature of the assault, the woman managed to fight back, escape, and alert authorities promptly. Lt. Bundy commended her courage and quick thinking, emphasizing the importance of self-defense and seeking help immediately in such situations. The police are actively searching for the suspect while urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation.
This alarming incident comes shortly after two brutal sexual assaults near the canals in Venice. In those cases, one woman was severely beaten, while another sustained significant injuries but is expected to recover. The arrest of a suspect, Anthony Jones, in connection with those assaults highlights the authorities’ dedication to apprehending perpetrators of such heinous crimes.
As the investigation continues, the Pasadena Police Department has urged anyone with information to contact them directly or provide tips anonymously through L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers. The community’s support and cooperation are crucial in ensuring that such acts of violence are swiftly addressed and justice is served for the victims.