Violent Mugger In Riverside Park

by dan rivoli

police are on the hunt for a man they believe attacked two women in riverside park early july 5.

the first reported attack happened around 6 a.m. when a 19-year-old woman was jogging in the park. while running close to the tennis courts near west 120th street, the suspect grabbed her and pushed her into a wall. she struck her head and lost consciousness. the woman was found unconscious on a park bench when someone called 911. after being taken to st. luke's hospital, she was treated for bleeding on the brain, a fractured cheek bone and cuts to her face and neck. her ipod was taken after the attack.

after the new york post reported on the violent mugging of the barnard college freshman, a second woman came forward to report a similar attack.

the 48-year-old woman said her attacker struck at 6:20 a.m. inside the park near west 98th street and riverside drive. while walking her dog, the suspect came up from behind and repeatedly struck her in the head. she told police the man kicked her in the chest and stomach while she was on the floor before fleeing. nothing was reported stolen.

nypd released a sketch of the man after the second victim came forward. he is described as being 5'8, in his 20s, and having a thin build and black hair. he was last seen wearing blue shorts.

police are urging anyone with information about the attacks to call crime stoppers at 1-800-577-tips, or visit the website at nypdcrimestoppers.com. all calls are confidential.