The Miami Beach Police Department has launched an intensive search for a man who was caught on camera attacking a woman on the Beachwalk near 23rd Street.
UPDATE: This article was updated to correctly reflect the current stage of the investigation, as explained by MBPD Officer Christopher Bess in a statement to Swisher Post:
“The Miami Beach Police Department is actively investigating the incident. However, it is important to note that at this time, the department has not confirmed that a rape occurred.”
Miami Beach PD launch manhunt for alleged assaulter
PLEASE NOTE: The third-party content embedded in this article contains images of a graphic nature that may be harmful to sensitive audiences. Viewers’ discretion is strongly advised. Swisher Post, its parent company, partners and affiliates do not condone violence and/or bullying and, thus, shall not be held liable for any consequence that arises from the journalistic duties performed in sharing this content.
The incident, which took place around 01:00 EST on Wednesday, was captured on surveillance video obtained by WSVN 7 News.
The CCTV footage shows a woman on rollerblades being accosted, choked, and then dragged off the path and assaulted.
According to the police report, officers were called to the scene after a passerby found the woman and reported the attack.
The Miami Beach police’s sexual battery unit is leading the investigation, urging the community to provide any information that could help identify and locate the suspect.
What police know about the suspect
The surveillance video provides crucial details about the suspect.
The man appears to be in his 20s to 30s, standing between 5’8” and 5’9”. He has noticeable arm tattoos and short-length hair twists.
In the footage, the suspect can be seen creeping up behind the woman as she skates along the path, unaware of the imminent attack.
He then wraps his arms around her neck, strangling her until she becomes limp. After dragging her into nearby shrubbery, the suspect allegedly sexually assaulted her and left her there.
Police have released these details in hopes that someone may recognise the suspect and come forward with information.
The Miami Beach Police Department has emphasised the urgency of capturing this individual to prevent any further attacks.