SAN ANTONIO -- Police are actively searching for the suspects behind the attacks on women along the Interstate 10 corridor between Callaghan Road and DeZavala Road. Since September, eight women have been attacked.
"The attacks are split between robbery and sexual assault," said William McManus, San Antonio Police Chief. "In some cases it's both,"
The latest victim was attacked last Wednesday just before 2 a.m. on the 4900 block of USAA Boulevard. Chief William McManus said a man approached the victim's car demanding her purse, while giving her sexually explicit instructions.
"The victim refused, her purse was thrown back at her and the actor ran away," said Chief Mcmanus.
Police don't believe the same person is responsible for all eight attacks.
News 4 WOAI Crime Tracker Specialist, Gilbert De La Portilla, says attackers are always looking for potential victims, so it's important to be alert.
"Don't talk on the phone when you're walking towards your car," said De La Portilla. "Have your keys in your non-dominant hand in case you need to strike."
De La Portilla also advised people to press the panic button on their car key if they are attacked, potentially causing the suspect to abandon their plan and run away instead. He also said if victims yell, they should yell "fire."
"When people holler help, others kind of shy away," said De La Portilla. "They may look and say, 'I really don't want to get involved,' but when you holler fire, people want to see what's happening."
So far, police do not have a clear description of the suspects behind the attacks. If you have information on any of the crimes, call Crime Stoppers at (210) 224-STOP.
