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Public's Help Sought In Identifying Attempted Rape Suspect

SANTA ANA (CBSLA.com) — Police are asking for the public's help in identifying a sexual predator who is wanted for questioning in an attempted rape.

The attack took place at 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 20 in the 1100 block of W. 17th Street in Santa Ana, police said.

The victim was getting out of her car when the suspect approached her, "forcefully struck her in the face and shoved her back into her vehicle," Santa Ana police detectives said in a news release.

The suspect held her down as he sexually assaulted her and tore her clothing. She fought back by hitting the man, screaming and honking the car's horn.

"This caused the victim's adult daughter to exit the home and assist her mother," authorities said.

The suspect fled the scene on foot with his skateboard.

Police describe him as a Hispanic man, 15 to 20 years old, 5 feet 5 inches to 5 feet 7 inches tall with a thin build and light facial acne. He had a long black ponytail, which was described as unkempt.

He was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and black skinny jeans at the time of the attack.

Detectives believe the suspect may live, work or attend school in the northeast portion of Santa Ana. Anyone with information should contact Santa Ana Police Department - Sex Crimes Detectives at (714)245-8378 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1 (855)TIP-OCCS.

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