ISABELLA COUNTY, MI -- The Isabella County Sheriff’s Department is investigating an assault that occurred early Sunday morning on Sterling Way Road in Union Township. 

According to police, a female, 21, was walking alone near the University Meadows Office building when she heard footsteps running towards her.  When she turned around, she saw a male that she did not recognize.  Police said the male took a gray sweatshirt that he was holding, placed it around her neck and began to strangle her. The victim told police the suspect tightened the sweatshirt around her neck to the point where she could not breathe.  He then began dragging her to a grassy area. Police said the victim was then able to scream, at which time the unknown male let her go and began running away. 

The victim said she ran to an apartment, began banging on the door and was let in so she could call 911.

A Michigan State Police K-9 was brought in to track the suspect, but was not successful. 

Police describe the suspect as an unknown white male, approximately 20-24 years of age, 5’10” tall and approximately 170 pounds.

Anybody with information about the attacker is asked to contact the Isabella County Sheriff’s Department at (989) 772-5911.