NEW YORK (WABC)– Police are searching for a man who allegedly sexually assaulted a woman in Central Park Saturday night.
Investigators said the attack happened near East 66th Street and Fifth Avenue around 8:30 p.m. The victim, a 39-year-old woman, was taken to hospital. The suspect fled.
Details about the wanted man remain limited. Investigators believe he is in his 30s and was last seen wearing a black hoodie, black sweatpants and a black backpack. No arrests had been made as of Sunday.
Witness Andrew Trahair said he discovered the scene while cycling through the park shortly after the attack.
“I walked past them and there were eight police officers here. The woman was standing there and was very shaken,” Trahair said.
Trahair said he arrived on scene around 8:45 p.m. and observed officers speaking with a woman who appeared to be in distress.
The attack sparked concern among park visitors Sunday morning.
Jenny Lee, who was on her way to a volunteer event at the park, said the violence changed her plans.
“I’m going to take a walk and wait until it’s later, because I have to go do a volunteer event inside the park,” Lee said.
Lee said she decided to wait until daylight before entering the park.
City Councilwoman Virginia Maloney, who represents the Upper East Side, released a statement following the attack.
“I run in Central Park myself. Women deserve to feel safe there, at all times.”
According to NYPD statistics cited in the report, four rapes have been reported so far this year, compared to three during the same period in 2025. The figures do not include this weekend’s assault.
Ian Moreira, who frequents the area for work, said the incident was disturbing.
“Actually, it’s very scary, because I come here often, especially in this area,” Moreira said.
Pablo Agustim Escobar, who was visiting Central Park for the NYRR Kids Race, said he hoped the suspect would be apprehended.
“I can’t even imagine how she would feel and I hope whoever is responsible is found,” he said.
The investigation continues as police continue to search for the suspect.
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