TEMPE, Ariz. — The Tempe Police Department is looking for a suspect who sexually assaulted a person last week after gaining entry to their residence through an unlocked front door.
Tempe police at a news conference Thursday said they believe the suspect is connected to two other assault cases based on witness descriptions and video surveillance footage.
The first incident happened Sept. 15 near 8th Street and Gary Drive where a man walked through an open garage door and approached one of the home's occupants while she was sleeping. Police said the suspect was startled by the woman's roommate and fled.
The second assault was reported at about 3:30 a.m. on Oct. 6 in the same area. Tempe police said the suspect fled before officers arrived.
A third incident was reported on Oct. 12 shortly before 6 a.m. again in the same area after the suspect entered a residence through an unlocked door and attempted to assault a sleeping resident. Tempe police said the suspect was startled by a roommate and fled the home.
Police are warning residents to keep their doors locked and doors closed.
“This individual is not afraid to check multiple doors and check to see if they’re unlocked," Officer Kayla Gneck-Smith said.
People living in the neighborhood told 12News they're improving their home security.
“We got a sign for security cameras in use, we are upgrading our ring system, we’re upgrading all of our locks to make sure they can’t (get) in the back," Tori Cord said.
The neighborhood is home to many of Arizona State University students who said they'll be more cautious when going to and from classes.
“Just being aware of our surroundings at night especially. Just kind of being hyperaware of things that are happening," Sabrina Baker said.
The suspect has been described as a Black male, 6 feet tall with a thin build. He was seen wearing a white long-sleeve shirt, dark pants, and a neck gator that covered part of his face.
Anyone with information can contact 480-350-8311.
UP TO SPEED
Watch 12News+ for free
You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12News+ app!
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives.
Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for "12 News KPNX."
Amazon Fire TV: Search for "12 News KPNX" to find the free 12News+ app to add to your account, or have the 12News+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.