VIDEO: Woman fights off sex assault suspect

LOS ANGELES -- Authorities are asking for the public's help to find a man suspected of sexually assaulting a woman who was walking home in Van Nuys.

The incident happened around 5:45 a.m. Saturday in the 14400 block of Vanowen Street. Authorities said the victim, who is in her 30s, was near her apartment when a man stepped out in front of her, attempting to engage in a conversation.

The man then suddenly tried to grab the victim.

"He's attempting to remove her clothing. He's able to get both her pants and her underwear down towards her hip area," Detective Eric Rose said.

She resisted as the suspect attempted to take his pants off. The woman and suspect ended up wrestling to the ground and she eventually got free.

The suspect fled the scene after she was able to get away. The suspect is seen on another camera walking down the street.

The assault has frightened women in the neighborhood. Authorities said the victim was screaming and yelling "fire" during the assault, trying to get someone's attention. Cars can be seen driving by as she struggles with the suspect.

"At one point, you will also see a lady walking down the street, looking back disturbed by what she's seeing, but at no time did anybody stop to help," Capt. Lillian Carranza said.

The suspect is described as a man with brown eyes, a bald head, about 5 feet 9 inches tall and appearing to be between 40 and 45 years old.

Authorities also released surveillance video showing the confrontation and a sketch of the suspect.

Anyone with more information is urged to call Van Nuys area detectives at (818) 374-9500. During non-business hours, people may call (877) 527-3247 or Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.