Man attacks girl walking dog

ATLANTA - Police officers in Atlanta are searching a man who ambushed a young girl walking her dog on the Freedom Trail.

The ordeal happened around 7 p.m. Wednesday evening on the trail near the intersection of Freedom Parkway and North Highland Avenue. Police said the girl was with her dog, when a man grabbed her from behind and held her in a "bear hug."

Investigators said the girl wrestled away from the man, kicked him in between his legs, then ran home.

Police describe the man as slim, dark-skinned, bald, and wearing a red shirt with a graphic print, cargo shorts and carrying a backpack.

Joggers said the attack was perplexing, because many people commonly believe a runner is safer while accompanied by a dog.

"I think I should be running with a small gun. That's really scary," said one woman out on the trail with her dog.

Anyone who sees a man with that description in the area is asked to call Atlanta Police immediately.