Police: Good Samaritan attacked in Rittenhouse Square

RITTENHOUSE SQUARE (WPVI) -- Police say a man who was visiting Philadelphia was knocked unconscious in Rittenhouse Square, all because he tried to defend a group of women who were being harassed.

It happened just before 3:00 Saturday morning at 18th and Walnut streets.

Police say a 39-year-old Texas man, who was visiting Philadelphia, saw a group of women getting harassed by people in a passing car.

The victim, who did not know the women, went to defend them. That's when police say he was punched to the ground and knocked unconscious.

The victim suffered a concussion, head contusion and fractures to his face. He was taken to Hahnemann Hospital in stable condition.

On Saturday local residents and visitors in Rittenhouse Square reacted to news of the crime which happened just as busy bars and restaurants were closing.

"As a woman I'd appreciate someone stepping in. At night time, or at any time in the day, when someone is harassing you, you don't know what to expect," said Erika Lawrence.

"It's awful, someone will be afraid to help in the future and it's a shame," said Anna Graziano.

"That's terrible - someone trying to do good, help someone else out and then for whatever reason someone jumps out and knocks the person out," said Stephen Callahan.

Police believe that several people were in the vehicle at the time but that only one person actually got out and punched the victim.

The vehicle is described as a black Nissan with Delaware plates.

Investigators are looking for surveillance video from the area.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Philadelphia Police tipline at 215-686-8477 (TIPS)