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Crime brief

Mugger thwarted

A pedestrian was dragged to the ground last week when a man attempted to steal his backpack while on a Mountain View portion of the Stevens Creek Trail, police said.

The attempted robbery occurred at about 7:55 p.m. on Oct. 16 while the man was walking along the trail near Evelyn Avenue and Highway 85, according to Sgt. Sean Thompson, public information officer for the Mountain View Police Department.

The victim was holding his backpack in his hand when the assailant approached him from behind and grabbed the bag, Sgt. Thomas said in a press release. A struggle ensued, and the two men fell to the ground.

Eventually the victim was able to gain control of his backpack and flee, calling 911 when he returned home, Thompson said.

According to the press release the suspect is described as a Hispanic man around the age of 25, standing about 5 feet 10 inches tall, of heavy build and wearing dark clothing and a dark baseball cap. Police released a composite sketch based upon the victim's description of the would-be robber.

Police encouraged trail users to be aware of their surroundings and call police to report any suspicious people or activities. The non-emergency dispatch number is 650-903-6395. "An emergency or crime in progress should be reported via 911."

Anyone with information can call the detective on the case at 650-903-6359. All tipsters may remain anonymous.