Uber or Lyft driver wanted for sexual assault near Capitol, police say

WASHINGTON - A driver believed to be working with either Uber or Lyft is wanted after he sexually assaulted a woman in Southeast D.C. on Sunday, according to police.

DC police said the woman called for a ride at about 4 a.m. on Sunday and the driver suddenly parked the vehicle in the 400 block of East Capitol Street, Southeast, about four blocks east of the Capitol.

Investigators said the driver began to inappropriately touch the woman and tried to take off her pants. When the woman began screaming for help, authorities said the suspect started choking and punching her.

The victim was able to escape the vehicle and run away. She was treated at the hospital for non-life threatening injuries.

Police said the suspect drove off in the vehicle, which was described as a dark colored four-door sedan. The suspect was described by officials as man between the ages of 32 and 36, standing approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall with a medium build. Detectives said he had slicked-back hair with thick eyebrows and either moles or freckles on his face.

Anyone with information that could aid detectives in their investigation was urged call (202) 727-9099. Tipsters could be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.