SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — A Brunswick man was arrested Wednesday night after allegedly assaulting a woman inside a vehicle while she was driving north on Interstate 295, Stephen McCausland, Maine State Police spokesman, said Thursday.
Derek Zimmerman, 53, was charged with domestic violence assault and obstructing the report of a crime, McCausland said in a press release.
“Zimmerman assaulted the female victim inside her car while she was traveling north about 8 p.m.,” McCausland said. “He then attempted to take the woman’s purse and cellphone before fleeing on foot across four lanes of traffic and into nearby woods.”
A search dog from South Portland police tracked Zimmerman to a South Portland motel, McCausland said.
Zimmerman was taken to Maine Medical Center for treatment of injuries he suffered while running through the woods, and upon release was taken to Cumberland County Jail.
The woman suffered a bloody nose, but did not require medical attention. Details about her age and hometown were not released.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence and would like to talk with an advocate, call 866-834-4357, TRS 800-787-3224. This free, confidential service is available 24/7 and is accessible from anywhere in Maine.