2 suspects sought in West Loop sex assault, beating of 2 women

CHICAGO (WLS) -- There is growing concern in Chicago's bustling West Loop neighborhood, after police said two women were beaten and sexually assaulted in the 800-block of West Wayman Street, near Lake and Halsted streets.

Police released surveillance photos of the two male suspects on Monday.

The women, ages 29 and 30, were walking to their car around 4 a.m. Friday when two men allegedly grabbed them, beat them and sexually assaulted them. Authorities said the men drove away in a light colored - possibly gold, four-door vehicle.

One of the suspects is described as a Hispanic man between 25 and 30 years old with a dark colored beard, 5' 5" - 5' 9" tall, weighing 150-170 lbs. Police said he was wearing a light-colored baseball cap, a dark jacket and a black hooded sweatshirt.

The other suspect is described as a Caucasian man between 25 and 30 years old with short blond hair, 5' 11" - 6' 1" tall, weighing 150-160 lbs. Police said he was wearing gym shoes, a dark colored jacket and dark pants.

The West Loop neighborhood is a bustling area, with a bar corridor and many popular eateries. The alleged attack took place one block from a well-known restaurant Randolph Street.

"We see a lot of things late at night, but it's never anything that's disturbing or something to be worried about," said Catherine Nault, a West Loop resident.

Police often advise walking with another person if individuals are out late at night. The two women did walk together, but were still attacked. People who live and work in the neighborhood voiced their concerns.

"You're supposed to be safe in numbers. To have something like that happen to you with a friend right next to you... really scary," said Sean Bresnahan, another West Loop resident.