A struggle with the suspect ensued resulting in some minor physical injuries to the victim, according to police. Investigators continue to look into the possibility the victim was sexually assaulted.
The victim told police that after the struggle she realized the bedroom was on fire, at which time she ran and called police.
"It's very scary, it shouldn't be that way here," said one neighbor.
Residents say this is the third incident on East Clark Place in the last month.
"This has been the kind of block where we don't lock our doors all the time, and it's been nice that way. Now we are going to have to start locking our doors, and watching our children because you never know what's going to happen," said Lisa Endersgaard.
The South Orange fire dept responded to the scene and extinguished the one-room fire.
The suspect is described a black male in his 20's with a medium build, medium complexion and was wearing a black hoodie type sweatshirt over his head. He was also said to be wearing dark or camouflage shorts with yellow timberland-style boots.
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WEB PRODUCED BY: Scott Curkin
