The La Mesa Police Department is currently searching for a suspect following a serious assault on a 38-year-old woman that occurred on the evening of Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
Incident Details
Time and Location: The assault took place at approximately 8:45 p.m. in the 5600 block of Lake Murray Boulevard, near the Baltimore Drive intersection.
The Encounter: The victim was walking toward her vehicle in a shopping center parking lot when she was approached by an unknown male. According to investigators, the suspect engaged her in a brief conversation before physically assaulting her.
Outcome: The woman sustained non-life-threatening injuries to her upper body and was treated by paramedics at the scene. The suspect fled on foot toward the nearby Interstate 8 on-ramp.
Suspect Description
Police have released a preliminary description based on victim and witness statements:
Appearance: A male, approximately 25 to 35 years old, standing about 5’10” with a medium build.
Clothing: Last seen wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt, grey sweatpants, and black athletic shoes.
Distinguishing Marks: Witnesses noted he may have a distinct tattoo on the right side of his neck, possibly resembling a bird or wing.
Ongoing Investigation
La Mesa detectives are currently reviewing surveillance footage from several businesses in the Lake Murray area to identify the suspect’s path of travel.
Public Safety: While this appears to be an isolated incident, the La Mesa Police Department has increased patrols in local shopping centers during evening hours as a precaution.
Police Request: Authorities are asking anyone who was in the area of Lake Murray Boulevard between 8:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday and may have seen suspicious activity or has dashcam footage to come forward.
Contact Information:
Anyone with information is urged to contact the La Mesa Police Department Investigations Division at (619) 667-1400 or provide an anonymous tip through San Diego County Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.
