Crime & Safety

Pantless Man Assaulted Woman Outside Stafford Apartments: Police

Authorities are looking for a man who wasn't wearing pants when he grabbed a woman in a bear hug in north Stafford on Wednesday.

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — A man who wasn't wearing any pants or underwear assaulted a woman outside of an apartment building in Stafford County on Wednesday, authorities said. Investigators are still looking for the attacker.

The victim was not injured in the attack, the Stafford County Sheriff's Office said.

Authorities were not able to provide many identifying details about the man on Thursday. They said he was wearing a black sweatshirt with the hood over his head. He may have been wearing a mask. He was not wearing any pants or underwear, according to the police report.

Find out what's happening in Fredericksburgfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The incident occurred around 11 p.m. on Wednesday at the Stonegate Apartments in northern Stafford County. The victim told police that she was walking from her car to her apartment when somebody came up behind her.

"Suddenly she was grabbed from behind in a bear hug by the suspect," the sheriff's office said. "The female was able to swing her arms and strike the suspect to break free and escape to her apartment."

Find out what's happening in Fredericksburgfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Investigators were not able to find the man on Wednesday night. On Facebook, the sheriff's office urged residents to be cautious when they are out and about.

"Residents are reminded to be aware of their surroundings and avoid walking or running alone at night," police officials said. "Stay in well-lit areas and avoid areas of shrubbery where someone could be hidden."

Anyone with more information about the assault can contact Detective D.V. Torrice, Jr. at 540-658-4450. Investigators are also asking residents in the area to check their own surveillance cameras.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.