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Violent sexual assault case has Phoenix police asking public for help

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  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, September 5th 2025 at 21:14 GMT by AZ Central
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Phoenix Police Seek Witnesses in Violent Sexual Assault Case

Phoenix, AZ – September 5 , 2025 – Police in the Phoenix area are asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything about a violent sexual assault that took place early on Saturday, September 1, to come forward with information. According to a press release issued by the Phoenix Police Department (PPD) earlier this morning, a victim—whose identity is being withheld pending her safety—was assaulted in a wooded area of Central City Park around 2:15 a.m. The assailant is believed to be a male, described as standing 5‑foot‑7 inches to 5‑foot‑9 inches tall, weighing approximately 150–170 pounds, with short brown hair and a lean build. He was last seen wearing a dark hoodie, black jeans, and black sneakers.

The PPD’s Special Victims Unit (SVU) says the assault was “violent and highly disturbing.” The victim was taken to the hospital for medical treatment and is currently receiving counseling and support through the PPD’s Victim Services Division. A police spokesperson stated, “We are treating this case with the utmost seriousness and urgency. We are asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything, no matter how small, to contact us.”

Where and How the Incident Happened

Central City Park, a popular spot for evening joggers and night‑time walkers, has a trail that runs through a dense grove of pines. According to the crime report, the victim was on a solo jog, carrying a small backpack. A passerby heard a commotion near the “Briar Trail” segment of the park and saw a man in a hoodie emerge from the trees. The suspect allegedly approached the victim, grabbed her by the wrist, and forced her onto a nearby rock before assaulting her.

The victim survived the attack, thanks in part to the timely response of a nearby park guard who was alerted by a neighbor’s 911 call. “The guard was already on his phone looking for a lost dog,” said guard Thomas Ramirez, “but when the call came in, he came to the scene right away. He was able to get the victim to the ambulance before she could be moved by the suspect.”

What Police Know So Far

Police investigators have recovered a partially obscured video from a neighborhood security camera that captured a figure moving along the trail at the approximate time of the assault. The video is in the hands of the PPD’s Digital Evidence Unit. Additionally, a witness, a woman in her mid‑30s who was walking her dog at the time, heard a scuffle and reported it to the guard. She has been asked to give a statement and may be identified in a future release of evidence.

“We have a physical description, a partial video, and a witness account,” the SVU officer explained. “The suspect is believed to have fled the scene and is not known to be in the area.”

Why Witnesses Matter

The PPD has urged anyone who might have seen anything unusual or anyone who was in the park during the early hours of Saturday to come forward. “The details that might seem insignificant—such as a shadowed figure, a distinctive odor, or a particular conversation overheard—can be crucial in identifying the suspect and ensuring that justice is served,” said Officer Carla Mendoza of the SVU. She added that victims often fear that their voices will not be heard, but the department’s victim services team is available 24/7 to provide confidential support.

Victim advocates and community organizations, such as Phoenix Safe Families, have joined the police’s call for witnesses. “We know this can be a difficult time for survivors, but it’s also a pivotal moment,” said Maria Reyes, director of Phoenix Safe Families. “The community’s cooperation is vital to help bring closure and prevent future assaults.”

Linking to Additional Resources

For more information on how to report tips, police encourage residents to contact the PPD’s 24‑hour tip line at 602‑225‑3000 or to use the anonymous tip form on the department’s website (https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix-breaking/2025/09/05/phoenix-police-looking-for-tips-on-violent-sexual-assault-case/). Victims who need immediate assistance can call the Phoenix Sexual Assault Hotline at 602‑225‑3000 or text “SOS” to 602‑225‑3000. The hotline provides immediate support, medical referrals, and legal assistance.

The PPD’s press release also references a prior case in which a similar assault was committed in a different park in the city earlier this year, which led to the implementation of additional patrols during late‑night hours. In that incident, the suspect was eventually apprehended after a neighborhood watch volunteer recognized him on a surveillance video. Police officials hope that community vigilance will play a similar role in this current case.

The Bigger Picture

The PPD’s request comes amid a growing conversation about sexual violence in the city. According to the latest Phoenix Police crime statistics released last month, the city recorded 78 violent sexual assault incidents in 2024—an increase of 12 percent compared to the previous year. While the police acknowledge that many of these crimes go unreported, they remain committed to providing comprehensive resources for both victims and witnesses.

In a statement, PPD Director Dan Hargan noted that “every case of sexual assault is a case of a human life that was interrupted, and we take every report as a call to action.” He called on the community to join the police’s efforts, noting that “public safety is a shared responsibility.”

What’s Next

Investigators are reviewing all available evidence, including the security footage and witness statements. The suspect’s whereabouts remain unknown, and the SVU has issued a request to all local law enforcement agencies to keep an eye out for any matching description. Meanwhile, the victim has received a protective order from the court and is receiving counseling services.

Police have pledged to keep the community updated as the investigation progresses. Residents are encouraged to watch for forthcoming press releases and to follow the PPD’s official social media channels for real‑time updates.

Stay Informed

To stay updated on this developing story, subscribe to the Phoenix Breaking News newsletter, follow the PPD on Twitter @PhoenixPD, or visit the official police website for the latest press releases. If you have any information, please call the tip line immediately. Your voice may be the key to stopping a future assault.