Tulsa Woman Working In Her Garage Sexually Assaulted

Emily Baucum, News On 6

TULSA, Oklahoma -- Police are investigating a brutal sexual assault at a south Tulsa home. It happened late Friday night near 59th and South Yorktown Avenue.

Police believe it was a random crime, and it was also a very scary experience for the victim, who police say is a woman in her forties. 

Investigators in TPD's Sex Crimes unit are handling the case. They say the woman was cleaning out her garage between 10 and 10:30 Friday night with the garage door open.

She didn't see the suspect coming. He approached her from behind, put her in a choke-hold and was holding a small knife.

Detectives say the suspect demanded cash from the victim, and when he didn't get enough, he sexually assaulted her. The victim told police the suspect then tied her up, went in the house and stole jewelry and other expensive items.

Then he ran out the front door of her house.

Police say the victim was not injured but is obviously shaken from the violence. Officers believe the suspect saw an opportunity to harm her -- and took it.

"It's possible he could have been casing her house, but I think it was probably a crime of opportunity," said Sergeant Mark Mears with the Tulsa Police Department.

"He saw her in there. I think robbery was probably the primary motive."

The suspect is described as a black male between 5'6" and 5'8" in height. He has a medium build and was wearing a skull cap and all black clothing. He is believed to be clean shaven.

If you know anything that could help officers find the suspect, you're asked to call Crime Stoppers at 918-596-COPS.

Officers say this is an unfortunate reminder to always be aware of your surroundings.