Appeal for information following Parkville sexual assault

Photo: vicpolicenews

A woman aged in her 20s was walking along Gatehouse Street on 28 March when she was grabbed by a man near the intersection with Bayles Crescent about 2.35am.

The man approached her from behind in a bear hug and the pair has fallen to the ground.

He then sexually assaulted her.

The victim screamed and the man attempted to cover her mouth, however several nearby residents heard her.

She managed to break free and ran to a nearby property on Gatehouse Street where the residents assisted her and called police.

The area was subsequently searched by police, including the Air Wing, however the man was unable to be located.

Since the incident occurred, detectives have made a number of enquiries in relation to possible persons of interest however these have since been ruled out.

The man is described as being aged between 25 and 35 years of age with olive skin, a muscular build and “average height”.

At the time he was wearing a blue or grey hooded jumper, grey jeans and runners with white soles.

Detectives are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen a man fitting that description in the area on the night of who has any knowledge of the incident.

They have also released a digital composite image of a man they wish to speak to in relation to the incident, along with CCTV of a man walking along the street.

An information caravan will be set up on Gatehouse Street from 10am until 2pm and anyone with information can also attend the caravan.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.