Police need help identifying suspect who assaulted woman, took her purse

The El Paso Police Department is asking for the public’s help after a woman was brutally attacked and robbed by a man at a West El Paso parking lot.

It happened at about 1 a.m. on Friday, May 25, 2018 in the parking lot of a shopping center at 2900 North Mesa.

Police said the 20-year-old woman was walking to her car when the suspect began following her. The victim noticed she was being followed and started to run. Police said the man ran after her and allegedly threw her to the ground.

The man began to hit her and demanded for money while threatening her with a knife, police said.

The suspect fled the scene with the woman’s purse and security cameras captured the suspect using her stolen credit cards.

Investigators learned he used one of the victim’s credit cards at several locations, including the Circle K store located at 3910 Dyer.

The suspect is described as a White or Hispanic male in his 40’s, 5’9″ feet tall, with a thin build and short greying hair.

He was wearing a blue shirt with a design on the front, blue denim jeans, and white shoes.

Investigators have a reason to believe the suspect is driving a full-size extended pickup truck.

Darrel Petry Spokesman for the El Paso Police Department said it’s important to stay visible during walks after dark.

“Don’t walk to closely too overgrown hedges and bushes and stuff that prevents you from being seen,” Petry said.

Petry also said being accompanied can also reduce the risk of attacks.

“It’s always best to have someone with you if your going to walk at night, again we’re talking about wearing light colored clothing something reflective and take a flashlight,” Petry said.

Petry suggests parking in well lit areas and having your phone and keys at hand to quickly get in your car.

“A lot of us find the closest parking spot you can find and we whip it in there, fit in between the lines, and we are out the car. But if you’re parking for yourself or shopping by yourself take that into consideration, you want to park in a place safe for you,” Petry said.

Petry said noise is also a great deterrent for would be attackers.

“Wether it’s yelling or a whistle or anything that can bring attention to an attack can be a deterrent,” Petry said.

If anyone has information on the identity of this violent robber, please call Crime Stoppers of El Paso at 566-8477 (TIPS), or at www.crimestoppersofelpaso.org

You can qualify for a cash reward if your tip leads to an arrest.