Police: Assault On Woman In Colts Neck, NJ Similar To Other Incidents Last Year

COLTS NECK, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- Police in the quiet, rural community of Colts Neck, New Jersey are  searching for a man who they say assaulted a female driver after getting her to pull over in an attack similar to ones in the same area last year.

It happened just before midnight Tuesday near Five Points Road and Stone Hill Road.

Investigators said the victim was driving when a car behind her flashed its headlights several times. She pulled over to the shoulder and the car behind her did the same, parking behind her, police said.

The suspect got out, went up to the female driver and asked for directions, police said. That's when police said he sprayed her with something, possibly pepper spray. The victim sped away and was not followed, according to police.

The attack has left many area residents on edge.

"I have a young daughter that drives. I tell her don't pull over for anybody," resident Lisa Schlesinger told CBS2's Andrea Grymes.

"I get in my car. I lock my door. I don't open my window or door for just anybody," said resident Lisa Faupel.

"It's kind of scary," said resident Tim Foley. "We're really concerned about staying secure and keeping our eyes open because it's a nice town."

Investigators said the assault and the suspect are similar to incidents that happened last year in Freehold and Colts Neck.

In every incident, the man made conversation with women before ultimately spraying them in the eyes with a mace-like substance, police said.

They re-released two different pictures of the man they're looking for, described as a black male, at least 6 feet tall with a heavy set build and short hair. He is possibly driving a silver or sandy-colored four-door sedan.

Authorities are warning drivers that if you are approached and you cannot identify the person as a police officer or someone you are familiar with, do not lower your window or open the door.

If you suspect you are being followed, do not go home. Go to a police station or other safe and well lit public place.

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Colts Neck Police Detective Bureau at 732-780-7323 or detectives@coltsneckpolice.com