Police: Suspect assaulted, attempted to abduct jogger at Stonewall Park in Manassas

MANASSAS, Va. - A Virginia woman fought off an attacker as he tried to abduct her as she was jogging, authorities said.

Police said it was around 9:30 a.m. Saturday when they were called about the attempted abduction at Stonewall Park in Manassas. The victim was running on a trail when she was approached by a man she did not know.

According to police, the suspect grabbed the victim and assaulted her. She was able to escape, but suffered minor injuries. The suspect ran away following the altercation.

Police said the suspect is described as a Hispanic male in his late 30s.

"We are concerned, we are taking it seriously, but the case is still active and under investigation," said Manassas City Police Officer Charles Sharp. "We have stepped up police presence. We will be conducting extra patrols. We are asking the citizens if they know anything about the case or they see anything suspicious to please give us a call."

Sharp added, "We ask that people do take crime prevention measures if they are going to jogging or something. Maybe do it in a group."

This is the second attack in this area in the last couple of years, but police said it is unlikely there is any connection.

Anyone with information is urged to call the Manassas City Police Department at 703-257-8000 or the Manassas City/Manassas Park Crime Solvers at 703-330-0330.