Knoxville, TN (WOKI) Knoxville Police are investigating after a woman reported an assault early Sunday morning in Fort Sanders.

KPD officials say a 22-year-old woman reported that a man claiming to be an Uber driver assaulted her.

According to the woman’s report, the man, possibly of Middle Eastern descent with a heavy build, told her he was an off-duty driver who offered her a free ride to her apartment as she was walking home.

The woman reportedly got into the car when the man assaulted her and pushed her out before driving off.

“The Knoxville Police Department strongly encourages residents and visitors to never get in a vehicle with an unknown individual for any reason,” Erland said. “If you have requested a rideshare, always verify the driver information before getting in the car.”

Those with information are asked to call East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers anonymously at 865-215-7165.

Anyone who has experienced a similar assault is asked to call the special crimes unit at 865-215-6810.