Woman grabbed while jogging near Marquette Park, police say

CHICAGO -- Chicago police are asking joggers near Marquette Park to be alert after a woman was grabbed around 7 a.m. Wednesday.

The victim did not know the offender, police said. She was jogging in the 3900-block of West 71st Street when she was attacked. The offender, who did not say anything, ran the opposite direction on 71st Street toward South Pulaski Road.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic man between 24 and 27 years old with black hair and a medium complexion. Police said he is about 5 ft. 6 in. tall and weighs around 170 lbs.

The victim said he was wearing a brown sweatshirt with a design or writing on it, dark blue jeans and black gym shoes.

"It makes me more aware that I shouldn't be running at night," Gloria Villanueva said. "It's usually calm and quiet. It's a nice neighborhood. It's friendly."

Police recommend people jog and walk in pairs and ask residents to report any suspicious behavior or suspicious vehicles in the area.

"I feel safe, but at night I worry because I walk to work," Sylvia Jurich said.

Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact Area Central detectives at (312) 747-8380.