A man attempted to kidnap and sexually assault a 16-year-old jogger in the Star Lake area last week. Now, King County detectives are asking for help from the public to track him down.
According to the sheriff’s office, the teen was jogging last Monday night near South 272nd Street and 42nd Avenue South, just east of Star Lake. She noticed a dark colored SUV parked alongside the road with a man standing outside. The teen attempted to turn around to leave the area, but the man grabbed her by the throat.
The suspect reportedly pushed the teen into the driver’s side of the SUV. The suspect was able to pull off the teen’s clothes, but she fought back, screaming and scratching the man on the face. She kicked him, and he fell down, but then grabbed her by her sweatshirt when she tried to flee. The teen was able to pull away and flag down a passing car.
The suspect fled in the SUV, which was described as similar to a Toyota 4Runner. Police believe the suspect is over 6 feet tall, between 50 and 55, and with shoulder-length salt-and-pepper hair.
If you recognize the description or know anything about the attempted assault, contact the King County Sheriff’s Office at 206-296-3311.
