Teen Jogger Grabbed From Behind, Pepper Sprays Attacker

A 15-year-old girl grabbed from behind while jogging in Fairfax County this weekend was able to fend off her attacker using pepper spray.

According to police, the teen was jogging in the area of Hayfield Road approaching Old Telegraph Road in Alexandria at approximately 10 p.m. Saturday when an unknown man grabbed her from behind.

The woman used pepper spray against her attacker.

"When he grabbed her, she was able to physically defend herself," Eddy Azcarate with Fairfax County Police told News4's Erika Gonzalez.

The suspect and the victim fled the scene in different directions.

"She's knowledgeable and she's aware, good for her," nearby resident Maritza Lagares said. "Unfortunate that it happened, but good for her."

The suspect was described as wearing a dark, long-sleeved shirt and cream colored pants at the time of the incident.

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If you have any information on this crime, contact police at 1-866-411-TIPS.

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