Man with machete attempts to abduct woman in parking lot, police say

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Police said a man armed with a machete attempted to abduct a woman in a South Philadelphia parking lot last month.

In newly released surveillance video, the alleged attacker can be seen lurking around the parking lot of the Hawthorne Lofts on the 1200 block of Fitzwater Street around 5 a.m. on April 30.

Police said when the victim, a 58-year-old woman, approached the suspect, he lunged from behind a vehicle while brandishing the machete and ordered the victim to get into the car.

According to investigators, the victim threw the vehicle keys to the ground and ran away. Police said the suspect chased after her but was startled by an oncoming vehicle.

Philadelphia Police Captain Sekou Kinebrew credits the victim with quick thinking.

"The actions that she took is what kept her safe I believe," he said.

For residents like Nancy Stanley it's terrifying. She fears there's no way to stop this.

"The gate stays open for a while and so it would be easy for someone to sneak in if you weren't paying attention," said Stanley.

Police said the suspect is considered dangerous and anyone who comes in contact with him should contact 911.

"We assume the worst of what he was going to do. We don't want him to do that again and complete his intentions with anyone else," said Kinebrew.

If you have any information about this crime or this suspect, you are asked to contact the South Detective Division at 215-686-3013.