Everett police hunting for attacker

Published 12:51 pm Wednesday, January 20, 2010

EVERETT — Police are searching for a man who attacked a woman as she was walking to work in downtown Everett last week.

The woman, 23, reported that she first encountered the suspect Jan. 12 as she was walking in the 2900 block of Broadway. She said the suspect tried to start up a conversation with her as he followed her. He asked for her phone number. When she refused, he asked for a hug. Again she refused the man’s request.

The man then grabbed the woman from behind and began groping her, Everett police Sgt. Robert Goetz said. The attack happened about 5 a.m. in the 2000 block of Wall Street.

The woman fought to get away and the suspect began dragging her down the street, Goetz said. The woman was able to reach her cell phone and tried to call for help. The man released the woman and fled.

The woman ran to her job, where a co-worker called 911.

The suspect is described as Hispanic and in his 30s. He is about 5 feet 4 inches tall and about 180 pounds. He has black hair and a goatee. He was wearing a red beanie cap, a gray hooded sweatshirt and dark-colored Carhart pants.

He may have been driving or was associated with a red pickup truck with a white canopy. Police have video of the suspect following the woman.

Anyone with information about the attack or the suspect’s identity is asked to call the Everett police tip line at 425-257-8450.