Crime & Safety
UC Berkeley Assault Suspect Arrested
UC Berkeley police arrested a 33-year-old man who allegedly assaulted a female bicyclist Tuesday.
ALBANY, CA — University of California, Berkeley police arrested a 33-year-old man who allegedly assaulted a female bicyclist Tuesday, pulling her off the bike and dragging her toward some bushes until she unleashed pepper spray on him and escaped.
Police on Friday morning arrested Andrew McNear, an acquaintance of the victim.
The female was riding on a pathway along the south fence line of the University Village in Albany between 7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tuesday when McNear allegedly came out of some bushes and told her he was going to follow her and sexually assault her.
The victim verbally responded and continued to ride past the suspect. McNear then allegedly grabbed her from behind, pulled her off her bike, and began to take her toward the bushes.
The female used pepper spray on the suspect and escaped before reaching the bushes. She didn't suffer any physical injuries. McNear, who police said isn't affiliated with the university, allegedly fled toward Eighth Street.
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Anyone with relevant information about the case can contact UC police at (510) 642-6760.
For more information on sexual violence prevention and resources, people can visit the survivor support website at https://svsh.berkeley.edu/.
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