Man wanted for unprovoked attack on Melrose Avenue

Investigators with the LAPD’s Wilshire Division are searching for a male suspect who brutally attacked a female victim on Melrose Avenue near Crescent Heights Boulevard on June 24.

Lt. Mark Ro said the attack was unprovoked. The victim was walking her dog when the male suspect, who was shirtless, crossed the street and began to follow her. Ro said the suspect approached the woman from behind and punched her in the face, causing her to fall to the ground. The suspect then walked away.

“We believe he is homeless and suffering from mental health issues. He did not say anything to the victim, but she said he mumbled something,” Ro said. “A witness drove by in a car and saw him hit her, but did not get a clear view of the suspect. The witness stopped, helped the victim and called the police.”

Investigators found surveillance camera footage showing the suspect crossing the street shortly before the attack and made it public. The victim, Sigal Engelberg, posted the video of the suspect on social media and asked the public for help in finding him.

“Please share this video so he can be caught. Be on the lookout and call the police if you see him,” she posted on Instagram on July 12.

Ro said patrol officers reviewed the footage and searched for the suspect. Ro said officers, who frequently interact with homeless people, did not recognize him and were unable to identify the man.

“It’s very annoying. It doesn’t happen often, but we’ve seen situations all over the city where someone walks up to a victim and just hits them,” Ro said. “It’s outrageous, especially when it’s unprovoked.”

Authorities said anyone who sees the suspect should call 911. Anyone with information is asked to call Wilshire Division detectives at (213)922-8205 or (213)473-0476. On weekends and after hours, call the LAPD tip line at (877)LAPD247.