A construction worker is speaking out after he and his crew intervened to save a 63-year-old woman from a violent attack by a naked man in Sawtelle on Thursday.
Rick Dreyfus, a general contractor, said he and his team were working on a job site in the 2400 block of Barry Avenue, near the 10 Freeway, when they heard desperate screams for help.
“At first, you hesitate, wondering if what you’re hearing is real,” Dreyfus said. “Then instinct kicks in, and you know you have to act.”
When they arrived at the scene, Dreyfus and his team found a man attacking the woman, pinning her face down and attempting to sexually assault her.
Suspect Arrested After Violent Rampage
Los Angeles police responded to a call about the assault at around 12:40 p.m. and arrested the suspect, later identified as 33-year-old Ishmail Bangura.
Authorities revealed that before the attack, Bangura had assaulted a 3-year-old child by striking the toddler in the face. He then forced his way into another apartment, where he targeted the 63-year-old woman.
According to police, the victim attempted to escape by running outside, where her cries for help alerted Dreyfus and his workers.
Also Read – Huntington Beach Controversy: Ex-NFL Player Fired After ‘MAGA’ Plaque Protest
Concerns Over Nearby Homeless Encampment
The attack has reignited concerns about a nearby homeless encampment, which residents believe has contributed to an increase in crime.
“These guys didn’t even hesitate—they just ran in to help,” Dreyfus said of his crew. “But this is what we’re dealing with, and it keeps getting worse.”
Officials have been working to clear encampments beneath the 10 Freeway. A resolution to remove people from the area was passed in October, but enforcement has been delayed pending signage installation.
Calls for Stronger Action
Councilmember Traci Park released a statement following the attack, emphasizing the need for proactive policing.
“I have been clear with the LAPD—dangerous and violent individuals must be removed from our streets before incidents like this happen. Our residents deserve to feel safe in their communities,” Park said.
Victims Recovering
The 63-year-old woman was transported to a hospital, treated for minor injuries, and released the same day. The 3-year-old child was treated at the scene and did not require hospitalization.
The investigation into the attack remains ongoing.
- Hit-and-Run Driver Sought After 4-Year-Old Boy Killed in Los Angeles - April 22, 2025
- Police Pursuit of 2 Priuses Ends with Driver Escaping Into Harbor - April 22, 2025
- Suspect Arrested After Allegedly Shooting at LAPD Helicopter - April 22, 2025
