A woman was able to fend off an attack at Birch Grove Park by using her keys, police said.
The 26-year-old woman told police she was walking the trails at the Northfield park at about 1:40 p.m. Tuesday, when she passed a man, who then started following her, Capt. Steve Steinecke said.
He caught up to her and grabbed her from behind in a bear hug, then reached around and grabbed her crotch, according to the report.
The woman used her keys to scratch his face, Steinecke said.
The man then pushed the woman to the ground and ran, leaving behind a blue bandana.
He is described as an about 20-year-old 5-foot-10, clean-shaven white male. He may have scratches on his face. He was last seen wearing a short-sleeved white T-shirt and light gray sweatpants.
Police released surveillance footage of a person of interest.
A K-9 Unit from Galloway Township came to try to track the suspect, but no one was found, Steinecke said.
Physical evidence obtained at the scene will be submitted for analysis.
Anyone with information is asked to call Northfield police at 609-641-2832, ext. 147.
