News Summary
Phoenix Police are seeking public help in locating a suspect involved in a violent sexual assault that took place in August. The incident left a woman critically injured, and authorities have collected DNA evidence. Residents are urged to report any information to assist in the investigation.
Phoenix Police Seek Public Assistance in Violent Sexual Assault Case from August
The Phoenix Police Department is actively seeking public assistance to locate a suspect involved in a violent sexual assault that occurred on August 14, 2025. The incident took place around 4 a.m. near the intersection of 44th and Oak streets, north of McDowell Road. Police were notified after witnesses reported hearing yelling from a nearby alley.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a trail of blood leading to a partially unclothed and unconscious woman in her mid-30s. Due to the severe injuries she sustained during the assault, the victim was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. After receiving medical treatment, the woman has since been released and is currently recovering at home.
According to Lieutenant Casey Tornberg from the Phoenix Police Adult Sex Crimes Unit, the injuries inflicted on the victim were severe, indicating the brutality of the attack. Investigators believe that the woman was attacked randomly while walking in the area, suggesting a lack of prior connection between her and the suspect. At this point, police are unclear if a weapon was involved in the assault.
In an effort to gather evidence, detectives have retrieved several items of interest during their canvassing of the area where the assault occurred. Authorities have also obtained a rape kit containing DNA evidence, which could be instrumental in identifying the suspect.
To aid in the investigation, the Phoenix Police Department is encouraging anyone with information, video footage, or photographs related to the case to come forward. Individuals can contact the police department directly or reach out to Silent Witness, a program that allows community members to report crimes anonymously. Silent Witness can be contacted at 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377) or 480-TESTIGO (480-837-8446) for Spanish speakers. Reports made through this program may qualify for a cash reward if they lead to an arrest.
Anyone wishing to share information can also utilize an online portal established by the police department. This outreach aims to gather crucial leads that may assist in solving the case and ensuring justice for the victim.
This incident has raised significant concern within the Phoenix community, underscoring the ongoing issue of sexual violence in urban areas. The police are urging local residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities they may observe in their neighborhoods.
The Phoenix Police Department continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of its community members and is committed to thoroughly investigating this case to ensure the perpetrator is brought to justice. People in the area are reminded that even small pieces of information could help provide answers and support the ongoing investigation.
As authorities work diligently to find the perpetrator, the community is asked to unite in the effort to assist law enforcement in this matter. Together, the public and police can help create a safer environment for everyone.
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Additional Resources
- AZCentral: Phoenix Police Seek Public Assistance in Violent Sexual Assault Case
- KTAR: Violent Sexual Assault in Phoenix
- ABC15: Phoenix PD Discuss Sexual Attack on Woman
- Google Search: Phoenix police violent sexual assault
- 12News: Detectives Identify Suspect in Violent Assault
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
