Police Investigate Third Sexual Assault In Northeast Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Three similar attacks in Northeast Philadelphia have police on alert.

Philadelphia Police are investigating a reported sexual assault in the city's Castor Gardens neighborhood.

It happened around 10:30 p.m. Wednesday in the 6700 block of Roosevelt Boulevard. This is the third sexual assault reported in Northeast Philadelphia within the past five weeks.

According to investigators, a 20-year-old woman was walking to a friend's house when an unknown male grabbed her, knocking her to the ground. Police say he then forced her behind a building where he physically and sexually assaulted her. Police say the victim continued to struggle with the male, screaming for help. The male then fled on foot toward Tyson Ave.

The suspect is described as possibly a white male, thin build, mid 20's, 5'9" to 6', with a deep voice. he was wearing a dark colored hooded sweatshirt (covering his face) and short pants.

Police are investigating if Wednesday's attack is linked to two prior assaults in Mayfair.

The first incident happened on April 25 in the 3300 block of Disston Street. The second incident happened on May 17th on the 3200 block of Wellington Street (See Previous Story).

Police say the incidents bear similarities to one another including offender description, method of operation, and location and nature of offense.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Special Victims Unit at 215-685-3251 or submit an anonymous tip at 215-686-TIPS (8477) or text a tip to PPD TIP or 773847.