NYPD: Man wanted for attempted sexual assault of woman in Central Park

The New York Police Department deployed officers throughout Central Park on Monday afternoon to investigate a sexual assault that occurred in the area, officials said.

NYPD Chief John Chell said “many officers” would remain in the park while the alleged attack was investigated.

The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m., according to police, as a woman was sunbathing in the Great Hill section of Central Park. The victim – who authorities identified as a 21-year-old white woman – attempted to flee before being attacked from behind by the man, identified as a black man in his 30s, the NYPD said.

The victim was able to fight back against the man, police said, but fled the scene before he could be arrested. The victim was taken to a local hospital, authorities said.

“We will keep Central Park and continue to be here until we feel this perpetrator is off the streets,” said Tarik Sheppard, NYPD deputy public information officer.

Authorities were combing the area for witnesses and obscure cameras that may have captured footage of the incident, the NYPD said.

Police say the number of robberies in Central Park has more than quadrupled this year. A number of crimes have been reported in Central Park in recent months, including at least four that occurred on one weekend in April alone. The New York Police Department announced it would increase patrols – and police presence in general – in the area.

The mayor’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.