The New Westminster Police Department (NWPD) is asking witnesses to come forward after a woman was allegedly assaulted by a stranger in the city’s Sapperton neighbourhood earlier this month.

Police say the incident happened around 9 p.m. on Sept. 3 in the 400 block of East Columbia Street.

According to investigators, the victim was walking in the area when an unknown man approached her, grabbed her by the throat and pushed her against a wall.

The woman was able to kick the suspect, who then fled eastbound from the scene.

The suspect is described as a slim-built man, approximately 18-years-old and about 5’3″. Police say he has dark curly hair and was wearing a Nike hoodie and black Adidas sweatpants at the time of the incident.

BC Emergency Health Services attended and assessed the victim at the scene. She did not require transportation to hospital.

“Any assault involving a stranger is concerning,” Sgt. Andrew Leaver said in a statement.

“We’re asking anyone who witnessed this incident or who may have dash-cam or surveillance footage from the area to come forward and speak with investigators.”

Investigators are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who was in the area between 8:45 p.m. and 9:10 p.m. on Sept. 3.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the New Westminster Police Department at 604-525-5411.