The attack happened about 1 a.m. Monday in the 13300 block of Washington Boulevard as the woman was on her way to work.
[Ads /]
Police say the victim walked away from the suspect after he asked her for a cigarette, and he then approached her from behind. That's when the man yelled a racial slur and punched her, causing her to fall to the ground.
The woman suffered a "severe" laceration to her right ear and was taken to a hospital for treatment, according to police, who said she is expected to recover fully. Police say it was a random attack.
The suspect was described as white, about 35 years old, 5 feet 9 inches tall and heavyset, with light colored hair, possibly balding.
[Ads /]
Police hope the public will be able to help track him down. Anyone with information on the case can contact police at 310-253-6300.
City News Service contributed to this report.