Hammer-Wielding Woman Fends Off Attacker

Santa Barbara police are asking for the public’s help in locating a suspect wanted for assaulting a resident of the 2100 block of Mountain Avenue on Friday.

According to a report from police spokesperson Lt. Paul McCaffrey, the resident noticed a man in her shed around 3:15 p.m. on September 11. She confronted the man, who then lunged at her, tearing part of her dress and slapping her, but ultimately losing his balance. According to the report, the woman then grabbed a hammer and hit him on the head. This prompted the suspect to take off running in the direction of Portesuello Road.

The report described the suspect as a white man, around 30 years old, with shoulder-length brown hair, a long beard, and a green jacket. He may have a noticeable head injury. Those with any information are urged to call the police at 897-2355.