Woman Attacked near Glendora; Safety Tips for Pedestrians

AZUSA, CA — Police are still searching for a man who sexually assaulted and tried to kidnap a woman in Azusa remained at large today. The attack took place on Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. on the 1100 block of East Alosta Avenue.

The woman was targeted as she walked to her apartment, according to the Azusa Police Department.

"As she entered the carport area of the apartment complex, a male suspect approached her from behind and grabbed her," according to a police statement. "The suspect was able to lift her off the ground, and made an attempt to carry her away. As the victim struggled, the suspect released her, and ran from the scene. The victim was sexually assaulted during this crime."

The man was described as Hispanic, 5 feet 5 inches tall, and in his late teens to early 20s. He wore dark clothing and a baseball-style hat.

Police said they do not believe the crime was connected with a similar abduction attempt near the Cal State Northridge campus on Tuesday afternoon.

According to Detective Spahr, in Facebook message, the woman is now at home resting and is okay.

Anyone with information on the Azusa crime was urged to call Detective S. Spahr at (626) 812-3200, or email him at sspahrII@ci.azusa.ca.us. Anonymous tips may be made via the Azusa police website.

As for tips regarding how to remain focused and avoid getting cornered, assaulted or kidnapped, Azusa Police Officers Bires and Detective S. Spahr conducted a live Facebook conversation on the subject.

"Be careful as you are walking, try to avoid using your electronic devices," when you are focused on your electronics you are not aware of your surroundings.
"We advise people to keep their heads on a swivel," Officer Bires stated in video on attempted kidnapping and safety tips.

Walk with a friend, if possible. If you are carrying a bag or purse, keep it close to you.

"One of the things about personal property," officer Spahr said, "give your stuff to them and we will help you retrieve it. It's not worth your life."

Walking at night, avoid dimly lit areas, they both agreed.

"If you are walking home and you see an alley, or you could go around, it's best to take the longer way home, in a brighter area according to Officer Spahr.

"In this day and age, we are seeing an increase in violence," Officer Bires said. "If someone tries to take you, you need to fight as hard as you can."

"If they are trying to take you, bite, kick and scream," Officer Spahr said. "Make as big a scene as you can."

One thing attackers do not like, is to be looked at. Scream loud, scream out the description of the attacker, make as much noise as possible.

"Time is critical in situations, so if you are attacked call 911 first, before you go to social media," Officer Spahr said. "Give us an opportunity to get there as soon as possible."

A member of the community, Gloria Minjarez, stated that yelling a description of your attacker will also throw them off guard.

"Witnesses can remember what you're shouting, so if you shout 'Blue Jacket' someone will remember that," he said, right before offering Minjarez Coffee with a Cop for that tip.

Shutterstock Image.