SANTEE, Calif. (KGTV) — San Diego County Sheriff's Department deputies are searching for the man who assaulted a woman as she was walking home Monday night.
“I was absolutely terrified,” said Tina Castle.
She said it happened under the overpass near Cottonwood and Prospect Avenues.
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Castle said the man grabbed her from behind and pushed her to the ground.
“I kind of had the wind knocked out of me; it was really really fast,” she said.
Castle said as the man held her head down, she felt his other hand ripping off her shorts.
“He tried cutting my shorts off,” said Castle.
She said the sharp object, likely a box cutter or a pair of scissors, also cut her thighs and legs.
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“I couldn't get him off of me, I couldn't think of what to do, so I urinated myself and peed on him, and he took off and ran,” said Castle.
She said that split-second decision likely saved her life. She said she’s lucky to have gotten away.
“I'll never walk at night by myself again,” she said.
The victim and family tried to spread the word by posting on sites like the East County Emergency Updates Facebook page.
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Deputies from the Santee Sheriff's Station and the Sheriff's ASTREA helicopter searched the area where the attack happened for any sign of the suspect. So far, no arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing.
The Sheriff's Department offered the following tips for remaining safe while out for a walk:
- Remain alert at all times
- Always pay attention to your surroundings
- Walk with a friend or family member
- Avoid outdoor activities at night
- If you see anything suspicious, call the Sheriff's Department at 858-565-5200
