Boulder Police Search For Sex Assault Suspect

BOULDER, Colo. (CBS4) - Police in Boulder are searching for a man who attacked and sexually assaulted a young woman.

The alleged attacked happened just before dawn on Saturday along the bike path near 28th and Baseline.

Police say an 18-year-old Boulder woman was walking by herself at 4:30 am after going to a fast food restaurant and finding it closed. As she was walking she heard footsteps, was grabbed from behind and sexually assaulted.

After the attack, the woman ran to a 24 hour nearby business for help.

Police say the victim broke her arm several weeks ago, and it was broken again in the attack. She is recovering at a nearby hospital.

Several women CBS4 interviewed said the attack, which police described as random, has them concerned for their safety.

"I don't know what situation this girl was in but definitely makes you aware," Caroline Jones said. "We're not really that safe and no matter where you are you shouldn't be walking alone."

Boulder-area resident Bryan Moat told CBS4 the details of the situation are somewhat confusing.

"At 4:30 in the morning there's really nothing open down here, except for the Denny's and Circle K," Moat said.

The suspect was described as being a light skinned black man with a 3 inch long light brown afro. He may have had a hair pick, was wearing a purple shirt with neon lettering and khaki pants. He was 6 feet tall, with a medium build, and about 18 to 22 years old. He was also wearing glasses.

Police said they are hoping tips will lead them to the suspect. They said they hope to have a sketch of what the suspect looked like soon.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Boulder police at (303) 441-1974 or Northern Colorado Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477) or 1-800-444-3776. Tips can also be submitted through the Crime Stoppers website at crimeshurt.com.