Neighbors Heard Victim's Screams During Boulder Assault

BOULDER, Colo. (CBS4) - Police have released a sketch of a man who sexually assaulted a woman a few blocks away from the University of Colorado campus in Boulder.

Officers are hoping tips will lead to a quick arrest.

The assault took place before 3 a.m. Saturday in the area of 30th and Euclid Avenue. The female victim was walking alone and spotted an unknown man who rushed her from behind and then attacked.

Detective Jack Gardner told CBS4 the victim got a good look at the suspect but no one else saw what happened. There is also no surveillance video of the attack.

"Some residents in a nearby home heard her screaming for help and crying hysterically," Gardner said. "The suspect ran from the area prior to the residents coming out."

A sketch artist drew a composite image based on the victim's description.

The suspect was described as being Hispanic, 5-foot-6 with spiked hair and wire-rimmed glasses

The neighborhood where the attack happened is mostly filled with college students. The streets are busy but some aren't that well lit.

"I will just try to be more safe and alert to the surroundings," one college student told CBS4.

"It kind of blows my mind," another said. "I don't ever feel unsafe walking around Boulder at night."

Other neighbors CBS4 spoke with were unaware the attack happened so close by.

The University of Colorado notified students through social media about the incident, but because it happened off campus the university has not issued a campus crime alert.

Additional Resources

Boulder police released the following safety tips in a news release about this case:

- Be aware of your surroundings and keep your cell phone handy
- Walk in pairs or groups
- Stay in well-lit areas; avoid alleys and isolated areas
- Call police (911) immediately if you see something suspicious or are the victim of a crime

Boulder police are asking for anyone with information to provide tips in the case:

The case number is 14-747. Anyone with information is asked to contact Dispatch at 303-441-3333 or Detective Jack Gardner at 303-441-1851. Those who have information but wish to remain anonymous may contact the Northern Colorado Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or 1-800-444-3776. Tips can also be submitted through the Crime Stoppers website at www.crimeshurt.com. Those submitting tips through Crime Stoppers that lead to the arrest and filing of charges on a suspect(s) may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000 from Crime Stoppers.