Police Release Video of Man Punching Woman in Face at Philadelphia Corner Store

Philadelphia police on Thursday released video of a man lunging at a woman and punching her in the face during a late-night attack at a corner store blocks from the University of Pennsylvania.

The incident occurred around 11 p.m. on April 22 in University City, a neighborhood dense with students and high foot traffic that is typically considered safe. Officials said the suspect spat on the woman before tackling her. The confrontation stemmed from a verbal argument that escalated inside the store.

"The argument escalates and the male spits on the woman and begins punching her in the face before leaving the scene in an unknown direction," officials said.

Surveillance footage shows the suspect and victim entering the store together, with the man trailing behind her. As the woman walked down an aisle, the man lingered near the entrance and argued with her, appearing agitated.

After she responded, he charged forward and threw several punches to her head. She slammed into store shelves and collapsed on the floor.

A bystander and an employee tried to intervene but could not. A friend accompanying the suspect appeared on camera pulling him back. The pair fled immediately.

Police said the woman suffered several injuries. She has been connected with victim assistance and advocacy services, according to Fox 29 Philadelphia citing police.

The suspect wore all-black clothing and a hat with a Philadelphia Eagles logo. Police continue to search for him.

Anyone with information should call 215-686-TIPS or Southwest Detectives at 215-686-3183.