Authorities are on the lookout for a man involved in a violent assault and attempted rape of a woman in Central Park early Saturday morning, amid rising crime rates in this famous New York City landmark.
A 38-year-old woman was near 85 East Drive in the northern part of the park at approximately 5:10 a.m. on Saturday when an unidentified assailant approached her, according to the New York Police Department.
Authorities reported that the attacker “pushed the victim over a metal fence, punched her in the face multiple times, and attempted to rape her.”
He subsequently escaped the area on a bicycle, heading north on 5th Ave. out of the park, according to police reports.
Video evidence captures the individual in a hoodie and a backward baseball cap riding a bicycle. Photos released by the NYPD seem to depict the suspect with a sizable food delivery bag slung over his shoulder.
The individual was transported by emergency services to the hospital and is currently in stable condition.
Recent data from the NYPD reveals a 13% increase in crime in Central Park this year, with a staggering 34% rise compared to two years ago.
The police have yet to make any arrests.