Manhunt underway in Beneden-Leeuwen after woman assaulted, suspect flees crash

Police launched a large-scale manhunt Saturday evening for a man suspected of assaulting and threatening a woman earlier in the night. According to de Gelderlander, multiple officers and a police helicopter combed the area near Brouwsersstraat.

Authorities traced the suspect after his vehicle was spotted in the town. When officers attempted to stop him, the driver fled, crashing the car near the Esso gas station in Beneden-Leeuwen. Following the crash, the man continued on foot. The assaulted woman is reported to be safe.

Police searched the vehicle to determine whether it contained a firearm but found none. The car was later removed by a tow service.

Police cautioned the public against misinformation circulating in WhatsApp groups, including claims of a possible armed robbery at a gas station, stating these reports are false.

The suspect remains at large, and authorities have not confirmed whether he is armed. Anyone who spots the individual is urged to contact emergency services immediately.