The City of Falls Church Police Department is seeking help in identifying a suspect sought in connection with a sexual assault. Police are investigating whether this assault may be linked to five other similar groping incidents that took place in Fairfax County this September.

On October 19 at approximately 4:23 p.m., the victim was walking with a baby stroller in the area of South Maple Ave. and Gibson St. The suspect approached her from behind and forcefully grabbed her buttock area. He did not let go until she screamed. 

The suspect is described as a short, skinny Hispanic male, approximately 5 feet, 6 inches tall. His hair is worn short in the back and he may now be clean-cut having shaved off his beard. His skin complexion is medium and he was wearing a grey long sleeve shirt, blue jeans, and a red baseball cap.

Police ask the community to be aware of your surroundings:

• Do not wear headphones or ear buds. It is very difficult to hear cars, sirens, or someone running behind you when you are preoccupied with music.

• When talking on a cell phone, be aware of what is going on around you.

• Walk in lighted areas.

• Keep your hands free, not overloaded.

• If you are being followed: cross the street, scream, run to an occupied residence or store, or flag down a car and call 911.

Anyone with information about the possible suspect should call Falls Church Police Detective Richardson at 703-248-5238.