Police release new photos of a person of interest in the attack on a woman and attempted rape in Central Park

CENTRAL PARK, Manhattan (WABC) — The NYPD has released new images of the person they have identified as a person of interest in the alleged attempted rape of a woman in Central Park on Saturday morning.

Details about the person in question have not yet been released.

The attack happened nearby Saturday 5:10 am near 85th and East Drive near Lasker Rink and pool, which is being renovated.

According to the NYPD, the suspect approached the 38-year-old woman, pushed her over a metal fence and punched her repeatedly in the face before attempting to rape her.

Officers say the suspect then fled the park on a bicycle heading north on 5th Avenue.

First responders transported the victim to an area hospital in stable condition.

While New Yorkers are sensitive to not blaming the victim, they were concerned that she was gone while it was dark.

“I wouldn’t be out here at 5 in the morning or right when it starts to get dark. I’m on my way home because it’s not safe to be out here right now when it’s dark,” said resident Nancy Moore.

This summer, another woman fought off another potential rapist while trying to sunbathe in Central Park. In that case, an arrest was made. The two crime scenes were very close together on the north side of the city’s crown jewel.

“I think it’s definitely a good idea to always walk with someone, especially when the sun isn’t shining, because you never know what could happen. And that’s a shame,” said Michaela Barratt, a park visitor.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).

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