Somerset County officials said they have launched an investigation into a sexual assault in Duke Island Park, Bridgewater, at approximately 8:45 pm on Sunday, July 18, 2021, in Bridgewater Township.
Prosecutor Robertson stated that on July 18, at approximately 9:07 p.m., Bridgewater Township Police responded to a 9-1-1 call reporting a sexual assault at Duke Island Park.
Upon arrival, officers met with an adult female victim, who reported being sexually assaulted by an unknown male while riding her bike in the park. Detectives from the Bridgewater Police Department responded to conduct the initial investigation.
The victim reported to authorities that the unknown male suspect came up behind her when she stopped momentarily to use her cellular telephone.
Police said the victim stated the male held a knife to her throat and asked for her money. After handing over her money, the victim reported that the male sexually assaulted her in the nearby bushes and then fled the area on a bicycle towards the direction of Raritan.
The victim described the suspect as a Hispanic male, approximately 5’4” to 5’6” between 151 lbs. and 175 lbs. with a medium to stocky build and olive to dark skin complexion.
The male was reported to be approximately in his 30’s with short black hair wearing a black hood and dark pants.
On Monday, July 19, 2021, Detectives from Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Sex Crimes Unit were notified and assisted Bridgewater Detectives in the ongoing investigation.
As a result of the active ongoing investigation, on Tuesday, July 20, 2021, a composite sketch of the alleged suspect was generated by a composite sketch artist assigned to the New Jersey State Police Forensic Artist Unit.
Authorities are asking for the public’s assistance with any information about the potential identification of the suspect.
Police urge the public not to confront the suspect and notify the police.