Neighborhood On Edge as Recent Attacker Remains at Large

AUSTIN, Texas - The search continues for a man who sexually assaulted and stabbed a woman in north Austin.

The attack happened earlier this month on Thermal Drive near Wells Branch Parkway.

The Travis County Sheriff’s Office has released a sketch of the man they're looking for and, investigators are asking for leads. 

"We've had more than 11 leads that we followed and unfortunately none of those leads have led to a suspect," said Jeff Ford a detective with the sheriff’s office.

The neighborhood near the attack is on edge. 

"It is definitely concerning," said Shelby Robertson who lives near the attack. "(It’s) really scary to be honest because sometimes I work late at night and I get home at 3 or 4 in the morning especially since that's about the same time the attack happened. It's pretty scary," said Robertson

Now Robertson said she is taking extra steps to stay safe,

"Pepper spray and I always have a knife on me at all times,” said Robertson. 

According to the Travis County Sheriff’s Office the suspect asked the victim for money then took her to a secluded area, sexually assaulted her, stabbed her, and then stole her cell phone before fleeing the scene on foot. 

"This victim has a right to be free of harm to be safe in her environment and this suspect violated this basic right," said Ford.

Ford described the suspect as a black male with light complexion around 5 and a half feet tall and about 30 years old, medium build, straight hair, and goatee. 

He was last seen wearing a white shirt, blue jeans, brown jacket, and smelled of alcohol.

"We don't want people to be scared to live their lives however we want people to be vigilant and know your surroundings," said Ford.

While he remains at large, Robertson said she and her neighbors will remain on high alert.

According to ford the victim in the recent attack is still recovering.

Right now they are still going through more evidence, if you have any information you are urged to contact the Travis County Sheriff's Office tips line at 512-854-1444.