Female jogger assaulted on UCLA campus; suspect sought

WESTWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Female students and staff at UCLA are on edge and on alert after a knife-wielding suspect tried to attack a jogger.

Campus police said the female student was out for a jog around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday near the Murphy Sculpture Garden just south of Macgowan Hall when she was assaulted.

Investigators said the man, who was armed with a knife, grabbed the woman from behind. A passerby saw what was happening and yelled, scaring off the suspect.

The victim suffered several minor cuts to her arm. She said the suspect was wearing dark clothing and smelled heavily of alcohol.

The attack comes as the hunt continues for 46-year-old Christopher Mendicino, who is a wanted peeping Tom. Police said he has been prowling the neighborhoods around campus for some time.

Authorities said it doesn't appear he's connected to the knife attack. They are warning women to be cautious.