PD: Tempe rape suspect on the loose

TEMPE, AZ - Tempe police are asking for the public's help finding a man who assaulted an ASU student early Wednesday morning.

Tempe police spokeswoman Molly Enright said the attack happened around 3 a.m. at an apartment complex near Rural Road and University Drive.

Authorities said the suspect entered the student's apartment and attempted to rape her.

During the attack, the victim was able to fight the man off and run from the apartment.

"You know people's bodies go into shock so you never know if you're capable of doing it or not," said Emily Wallis, an ASU student who lives nearby.

"It's definitely a strong thing to do. It takes a lot of courage and a lot of strength to fight you're way out but it's a self preservation thing," added Alex Regas, an ASU student who lives in the same building as the victim.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male, in his late 40's to early 50's, 5 feet 5 inches tall with a chubby build. He was wearing a red T-shirt with black writing and long shorts that covered his knees.

"Take a good look at him and know that he did a horrific crime to a young lady and we need to get him off the streets," said Sgt. Michael Pooley, a spokesperson with Tempe Police Department.

Anyone with information is requested to please call the Tempe Police Department at 480-350-8311 or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377).