Police have released a sketch of a man wanted for a violent sexual assault in Jersey City that has shocked residents in the area.
Investigators say the armed suspect grabbed the victim, who was walking alone at around 2 a.m. Monday, from behind and threw her down a stairwell. He tore at her clothing and forcibly kissed her, before cutting her in the neck with a box cutter razor.
The incident happened in the area of York and Grove streets, just a block away from City Hall. Neighbors say this area isn't known for violent crime.
"We love it here," says Lisa Acevedo. "I mean, there's great historic neighborhoods. There's a great community. Great place with lots of families with young children."
The area is undergoing a transformation, with new construction and families moving in every day, and residents say they feel safe and are surprised to hear about the assault. "It looks like a pretty safe area around here," Acevedo says. "It usually is, absolutely."
The victim described the man as 5 feet 5 inches and in his mid-20s, with shoulder-length hair and gaps in his front teeth.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police.