Police looking for suspect after woman sexually assaulted

A 35-year-old woman is recovering after what police describe as a serious sexual assault.

Police said the woman was with friends on the south side of the riverbank on the Assiniboine River, west of the Donald Street Bridge, early Friday morning.

The group dispersed and the woman headed to a wooded area, where she was confronted by a man she didn't know.

Police said she was sexually assaulted and passed out.

When she came to, she cried out for help, and police were called.

The woman was taken to hospital.

The Sex Crimes Unit is investigating.

Const. Jason Michalyshensaid police are looking for help from the public in finding the suspect.

"Right now we are acknowledging this very violent incident," he said. "We are acknowledging it to certainly warn the public, but certainly if anyone has further information, if they heard anything, if they saw this individual in the area, we certainly would appreciate a call."

The suspect isdescribed as about 35 years old, 170 lbs, with short, black, unkempt hair, pock-marked face and a slight moustache.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 204-986-6245 or Crime Stoppers at 204-786-TIPS (8477).