CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Charlotte man is in jail after police said he tried to rape an 86-year-old woman.
Police arrested Kenneth Sumpter Jr. on Friday afternoon on charges of attempted rape, attempted sex offense and attempted kidnapping.
Eyewitness News spoke with the victim, who said she mistook Sumpter for a neighbor's grandson when he knocked on her door Thursday afternoon in the Sedgefield neighborhood.
The victim told Channel 9 Sumpter first asked for a glass of water, and then asked to use the bathroom.
When the victim grew suspicious, she said Sumpter grabbed her arms and tried to force her into the bedroom, ripping the buttons off her dress.
The victim said she fought back, yelling and scratching Sumpter until he fled the home.
Officers said physical evidence at the scene led them to Sumpter after the victim provided them with a physical description.
Neighbors were shocked by news of the attack.
"That is very surprising yes, especially in the middle of the afternoon. It's definitely a mix of a neighborhood, but we still feel safe for the most part," said Nicole Neugebauer.
State records show Sumpter has previous convictions for burglary and possession of stolen goods.
Read more trending stories from wsoctv.com:
[ Deputies: Man shoots, kills 6 grandchildren, daughter, self in Florida home ]