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Salt Lake police are still looking for the man who attacked and raped a woman in broad daylight. The crime happened Monday afternoon in a parking lot at 400 South and Main Street.
Police are calling this a "blitz rape," meaning the victim has little time to react. It's a crime that is extremely rare here in Salt Lake City.
Police say the suspect was actually hiding underneath a car. When the woman walked by, he grabbed her ankles and pulled her down.
The victim said the man used a knife, and at some point during the rape she went unconscious.
Today, still no suspects have been named, although a dozen or so calls have come into the police station from people offering information.
Police have also been stopping and questioning people on the streets. But with the suspect still at large, authorities are reminding people to be cautious.
"As a woman, anytime you hear a case like this, it puts you on edge. But be prepared. Being aware is the key. Like we say, travel in groups, be aware of your surroundings," said Lara Jones, spokeswoman for the Salt Lake City Police Department.
Police say the victim didn't know the suspect but was able to give a detailed description.
The suspect is described as a dark-complected man with and unkempt beard and collar-length dark hair. The victim said he appeared to be a transient and had substantial body odor.
Anybody with information is asked to call Salt Lake City police at (801) 799-INFO.
E-mail: wjohnson@ksl.com
