San Diego

Woman Choked by Attacker While Walking on Trail in Unincorporated El Cajon

The attack happened around 9:15 a.m. on a hillside trail east of the Starlight Mobile Home park in unincorporated El Cajon

A woman walking on a trail in San Diego’s East County Friday was choked by an unknown attacker who wrapped a rope around her neck, nearly rendering her unconscious.

The attack – which investigators said appear to be random – happened around 9:15 a.m. on a hillside trail east of the Starlight Mobile Home Park in unincorporated El Cajon as the victim was out for her morning walk. The mobile home park is on East Bradley Avenue.

The victim told deputies the suspect wrapped a “cable-like rope” around her neck, choking her to the point where she almost passed out, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department (SDSO) said.

The woman managed to escape the suspect’s grip. He then ran, disappearing towards the hillside.

The victim told investigators she was not able to get a good look at her attacker. For now, the SDSO said the suspect was described as 6 feet tall and in his mid-30s. He wore a blue plaid shirt and baggy jeans during the attack.

The sheriff’s department launched a search for the suspect using its ASTREA helicopter but did not find him. Investigators said the woman suffered neck injuries and was taken to a local hospital by her family. Her name was not released.

SDSO Sgt. Miguel Lopez said, at this point, there are no witnesses to the crime. A sketch of the suspect has not been compiled. Lopez said there have not been any other reports of similar crimes in the area.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information on this case can reach out to Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.

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