Pasadena, California – Police in Pasadena have released a surveillance image of a man believed to be responsible for a violent sexual assault on a woman at a local restaurant on Saturday. The incident occurred at around 8:40 p.m. on Sierra Madre Villa Avenue, according to authorities with the Pasadena Police Department.
The suspect reportedly entered the woman’s car, brandished a knife, and forced her to drive to another location in Pasadena where she was sexually assaulted. Despite the traumatic experience, the woman managed to fight back, escape, and call 911 for help. Pasadena Police Lt. Tim Bundy emphasized the urgency of apprehending the suspect, describing him as a dangerous predator still at large.
Described as a Black male in his 30s to 40s, approximately 6 feet tall with a heavy-set build, the suspect was last seen wearing a black face mask, a gray hooded rain jacket, light blue jeans, black shoes, and carrying a folding knife. Authorities noted that he has a distinctive raspy voice and may be transient. The attack has left residents like Lynne Levin-Guzman, a nurse, concerned about their safety in Pasadena.
Despite the ordeal, police commended the woman for her bravery and quick thinking in resisting and escaping the assault. The incident follows other recent violent attacks in the area, including two brutal sexual assaults near the canals in Venice. In a separate case, a suspect named Anthony Jones, 29, was arrested in San Diego for forcible rape and attempted murder. The Pasadena Police Department urges anyone with information about the assault to come forward.
If you have information about the incident, please contact the Pasadena Police Department at 626-744-4241. To report tips anonymously, contact L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit the L.A. Crime Stoppers website. Stay updated on the latest news, weather, and sports by visiting KTLA’s website.