Colts Neck driver attacked with pepper spray, may be linked to other incidents

COLTS NECK, N.J. (WABC) -- Police are investigating a bizarre and apparently random attack on a driver in New Jersey, and authorities are looking into whether it is linked to similar incidents last year.

The latest attack happened around 12:30 a.m. Tuesday in the Monmouth County town of Colts Neck. Police say the suspect flashed his headlights to signify that he needed help, then parked behind the victim, asked for directions and proceeded to spray her face with some kind of irritant, possibly pepper spray. She sped off, leaving the attacker behind.

"I would keep on going," one area resident said, "The police department, we all know where our police department is, it's probably about a mile away. And I would have pulled into the police department rather than risk anything happening like that."

The victim's description of the suspect is similar to the person wanted in five unsolved attacks in Colts Neck and Freehold that occurred over several months in 2014, but authorities have not confirmed that they believe the same person is back at it. Still, the MO has them investigating the connection.

"It doesn't matter what area you live in," another woman said. "And I think when you live in a more upscale neighborhood, you become a bigger target."

The suspect is described as at least 6 feet tall with a heavyset build and short hair. He was last seen wearing jeans and a white polo shirt with blue stripes. Police released a sketch of who they are looking for.

The vehicle is described as possibly a silver or sandy-colored four-door sedan.

Anyone with additional information is requested to contact the Colts Neck Police Detective Bureau at 732-780-7323.