Deputies: Woman sexually battered by armed man, remains on the loose

Two police vehicles with flashing blue lights are standing diagonally offset at a deployment site. (Photo by Tino Plunert/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Detectives say they are investigating a report of a sexual battery that happened after a stranger approached a New Smyrna Beach home. 

The Volusia County Sheriff's Office said that the incident happened on Monday. A woman, who is said to be in her mid-50s, reported that a suspect knocked on her door around 3:30 p.m. in the area of Pioneer Trail and Canal Street. She opened the door slightly but the suspect asked her a question, forced the door open, and then pointed a handgun at her.

They said that the suspect then threatened to shoot her pets if she did not do as he said. He allegedly forced himself on her and punched her during the sexual battery.

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The suspect is described by deputies as a 45 to 50-year-old white male, about 5'11" tall, heavyset build, and has a long, gray beard. He was said to be wearing a red shirt and black pants. He was reportedly riding a bicycle.

Detectives are said to be still investigating. 

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