Home Invader Assaulted, Bound Woman in Oak Park: Police

A man forced his way into a home Thursday evening in the 1000 block of South Oak Park Avenue, where he assaulted and bound a 27-year-old woman before running away with $25 cash.

The woman was able to free herself and call 911 around 6:40 p.m., according to Oak Park police.

The woman, a Chicago resident, told police she was housesitting for a coworker when the man knocked on the door and asked for a name she didn’t recognize, and then he left. He came back a few minutes later and tried to talk to her. The woman said when she tried to close the door, the man forced his way inside and showed her a handgun.

After calling 911, the woman was taken to Rush Oak Park Hospital. She was treated and released later the same evening, police reported.

Police hope she will be able to provide more details as the investigation proceeds. Investigators gathered evidence and talked to neighbors near the home for several hours Thursday evening.

“Given the time of day and location, someone may have seen the assailant whether they know it or not,” said police chief Rick C. Tanksley in a statement. “That’s why we are urging everyone to think back to yesterday and try and recall anything or anyone that didn’t quite fit in with the rhythm of the neighborhood. Small details could be the key.”

Police are asking for anyone with any information to call 708-383-3800. Anonymous tips may be made by calling 708-434-1636 or online at oak-park.us/police.

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