Woman assaulted during attempted robbery in Palo Alto

PALO ALTO – A man forced a woman to the ground and assaulted her during an attempted robbery Tuesday in Palo Alto, police said.

The incident happened around 8:15 a.m. in the 700 block of East Meadow Drive near Mitchell Park, according to the Palo Alto Police Department.

The victim, a woman in her 40s, was walking in the neighborhood when she heard footsteps behind her, police said, adding that she was forced to the ground by the suspect.

The suspect then kicked the victim several times and demanded money, police said. The victim told the suspect she did not have any and yelled for help, after which he left the scene.

Police said the victim returned home and notified authorities about the attempted robbery.

The victim described the suspect as Latino and about 5 feet 8 inches tall with a thin build and shoulder-length hair. He was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt.

An investigation is underway into the incident, police said, adding that no similar crimes have been reported recently in the area.

The victim complained of pain and bruising from being kicked and she sought medical treatment on her own.

Anyone with information related to the case can contact the police department at 650-329-2413. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call or text 650-383-8984 or email paloalto@tipnow.org.