Prospect Park Assault Suspect Sought After Woman Breaks Free During Attack
BROOKLYN, NY — A 26-year-old woman fought off an attempted sexual assault inside Prospect Park earlier this month after a man allegedly grabbed her from behind and tried to attack her before fleeing on foot, according to the NYPD.
The incident happened around 7 p.m. Friday, May 8, inside Prospect Park in Brooklyn, NYPD Crimestoppers said in a public alert released Saturday.
Investigators said the woman was walking through the park when an unidentified man approached her from behind, wrapped his arms around her, and attempted to sexually assault her while exposing himself.
Police said the victim was able to break free from the attacker before he ran from the area in an unknown direction.
Authorities have not released details about whether the woman suffered physical injuries during the encounter.
Attack Raises Safety Concerns Inside Popular Brooklyn Park
Prospect Park draws thousands of visitors daily, especially during spring evenings when warmer weather increases foot traffic across walking paths and recreational areas.
The attempted assault happened during evening hours when portions of the park can become less crowded, particularly away from major entrances and heavily trafficked gathering spots.
Investigators have not disclosed the exact location within the park where the attack occurred or whether surveillance footage may have captured the suspect entering or leaving the area.
Police also have not released a description of the suspect.
Key Points
• A 26-year-old woman escaped an attempted sexual assault inside Prospect Park
• NYPD said the suspect grabbed the victim from behind and exposed himself
• Detectives are searching for the unidentified attacker who fled on foot
NYPD Continues Search for Attacker
The NYPD is asking the public for help identifying the suspect involved in the attack.
Sex crimes and attempted assaults inside parks often present investigative challenges because of limited witnesses and large open areas with fewer surveillance cameras than surrounding streets.
Officials have not said whether the suspect may be connected to any other incidents in or around Prospect Park.
The attack comes as New York City officials continue increasing patrols in major public parks during warmer months when visitor activity rises significantly.
Investigation Remains Active
No arrests had been announced as of Sunday evening.
Anyone with information regarding the attempted sexual assault is asked to contact the NYPD Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). Spanish-speaking callers can use 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Tips may also be submitted online through the NYPD Crime Stoppers website or by messaging @NYPDTips on X.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing.
