DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. – Authorities are searching for a man who they said tried to abduct a woman Tuesday while she was walking her dog in Deerfield Beach.

The incident occurred around 7:30 a.m. at the Highland Village Gardens Park in the 4900 block of Northeast Second Avenue.

People in the mobile home community told Local 10 News reporter Roy Ramos they were shocked by the incident.

“I just know she was really scared. I mean, who wouldn’t be,” Melary Valencia said.

According to authorities, the man was wearing black shorts and no shirt. Detectives said he was dirty and appeared to be homeless.

“Some man tried to grab her, came and tried to grab her, and her dog defended her,” Valencia said. “The dog bit the man and he left.”

The Broward Sheriff’s Office released a sketch of the man on Friday in hopes that someone will be able to identify him.

Neighbors are now taking their own precautions to stay safe.

“I have a taser and pepper spray. It might not be a 100 percent guarantee, but it is something,” Valencia said.

Anyone with further information is asked to call Detective Tiberio Barbosa at 954-321-4278. Those who wish to remain anonymous may call Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477. A reward of up to $3,000 is offered for anonymous tips that lead to an arrest.