Police Seek Public Help to Identify Suspect in North Hollywood Gym Assault

LAPD investigators are searching for a man who assaulted a woman outside a Planet Fitness location in North Hollywood on the night of July 19. The victim was grabbed from behind after leaving the facility, forced to remove her clothing, and then sexually assaulted with his hand. Detectives have released surveillance stills showing a heavyset individual, about six feet tall, with brown eyes, black hair, a thick neck, and a large build, dressed in blue jeans and a beige jacket, occasionally looking at his phone.

The lead detective emphasized the urgency of public assistance, fearing the perpetrator could be a serial predator who has targeted women at other area gyms. Local residents expressed heightened anxiety, and the gym’s manager offered escorts to vehicles for anyone feeling unsafe. Anyone with information is urged to contact the North Hollywood Sex Detectives at the provided phone number.