Woman sexually assaulted outside Charlotte apartment knew attacker, police say

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Police said a woman told them she was stabbed and sexually assaulted in the parking lot of a southwest Charlotte apartment complex.

Investigators said they responded to a report of a man who had attacked a woman Wednesday around 7:15 p.m. at the Courtney Ridge Apartments off Billy Graham Parkway.

Police said the 32-year-old victim said she was standing by her car when she was approached by a man who then sexually assaulted her. She said she tried to fight off her attacker and he stabbed her repeatedly with a knife before running away.

[ALSO READ: South Carolina lawmaker offers bills for assault survivors]

Authorities said she is expected to be OK.

Police said additional information revealed the victim and suspect had a prior relationship.

Channel 9 crews were on scene Wednesday night and watched as Charlotte-Mecklenburg police K-9 units tried to track down the man.

Eyewitness News searched CMPD’s crime records and found that the apartments are in a very safe neighborhood. Since the beginning of the year, there have only been two reported crimes.

The reported attack has neighbors on edge.

“I'm surprised, I really am,” said Abe Halloway. “It's a very safe neighborhood, very, very safe neighborhood. I’m surprised something like this could happen here."

Anyone with information is asked to immediately call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or 911.

Police said callers who provide information are eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

Cox Media Group