Man tries to grab, pull woman into woods in CT park

A man tried to grab a woman and pull her into the woods on Sunday afternoon in East Rock Park in Hamden, police said.

The 24-year-old woman was walking up the main roadway to East Rock Park when a man allegedly approached her from behind and tried to pull her into the woods about 12:40 p.m., according to the Hamden Police Department. 

The woman started screaming and the man let her go and ran into the woods, police said.

Officers responded to reports of suspicious activity in the area and, after speaking with the woman, tried to locate the man but could not find him. He was described as wearing a white shirt with a red stripe on it, police said.

An investigation was ongoing. Anyone with information was asked to contact the department’s Major Crimes Unit at 203-230-4000.

The department also issued a list of safety tips for the public, including avoiding secluded areas; making sure someone else knows your plan; avoiding distractions like headphones that can prevent you from hearing potential dangers; being alert and observant; keeping your hands free; trying to avoid walking alone and walking with confidence and purpose, police said.