PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania — A man walked up behind a woman on a quiet Kensington street in the middle of the day, grabbed her, and ran.
Now police are searching for him — and neighbors want him found.
The incident happened around 12:45 p.m. on Wednesday, May 13, on the 2600 block of Collins Street.
Surveillance video shows a man dressed in dark clothing and a black jacket following a woman down the street. After trailing her for about 15 seconds, he grabbed and inappropriately touched her from behind before fleeing toward Huntingdon Street.
Neighbors Say They Are Worried He Will Strike Again
The victim was not a resident of the block. Neighbors said she had been visiting someone there when the attack happened.
After the incident, she went to a nearby home for help.
Resident Jamie La Pierre-Valentine said her surveillance cameras captured the entire encounter — and that the victim came straight to her door afterward.
“A pervert, definitely a pervert. Someone who’s looking for power over somebody else,” La Pierre-Valentine said.
Neighbor Thomas Delgado said the attack has put the entire block on edge.
“A sick person, there’s no way around it, it’s just a sick person,” Delgado said.
He made clear that residents are watching.
“If I were to see that situation, I would take care of that situation as soon as possible,” he added.
What Stood Out to Neighbors on the Video
Residents who reviewed the footage said one detail caught their attention right away.
The suspect appeared to be wearing two different kinds of shoes — something neighbors said was hard to miss and could help identify him.
What Police Know About the Suspect
The Philadelphia Police Department described the suspect as a male between 30 and 40 years old with a medium build, last seen wearing dark clothing and a black jacket.
Police said the victim has been cooperating with investigators.
How to Report Information
If you recognize this man or have any information about his whereabouts, contact the Philadelphia Police Department’s Special Victims Unit at 215-685-3250 or 215-685-3251.
You can also dial 911 directly.
La Pierre-Valentine had a message for the suspect.
“Dude lookout, because there are people out there who aren’t afraid to defend themselves,” she said.
Do you live in Kensington or nearby? Have you seen anything suspicious in the area? Share what you know in the comments — your tip could make a difference.
