On what was supposed to be a routine workday, longtime Denver house cleaner Yesenia Hernandez says she was grabbed from behind and robbed in broad daylight while walking from her car to a client's house near East 17th Avenue. In seconds, she says, the attacker had her keys, her car and her sense of security, leaving her badly shaken but not physically seriously hurt. The brazen morning theft has rattled neighbors and other workers who use the same stretch for client appointments.
Hernandez, 49, told reporters the assault happened around 9 a.m. on March 20 near East 17th Avenue and North Emerson Street. Security video showed a man in an orange shirt and a wide‑brim hat approaching from behind and grabbing her. She said the suspect reached for what she believed was a knife before pushing her to the ground, then took her car keys and drove off in her vehicle. Her purse, credit cards and driver's license were inside the car. Hernandez called 911 and neighbors came to help, as reported by KDVR.
"I've never been attacked like that in my life," Hernandez said, adding that the struggle lasted only seconds as she fought to hold onto her keys. Hernandez has run her cleaning business since 2003 and told reporters she plans to keep working despite the incident, as detailed by KDVR. The footage and Hernandez's account have been shared with investigators.
Neighbors Rushed In As Police Hunt Suspect
Neighbors who rushed outside after the commotion helped Hernandez to safety and stayed with her until first responders arrived, she said. Denver police had not immediately announced any arrests and did not immediately respond to requests for comment, according to reports. The theft of a vehicle during the assault has amplified concerns among people who work in the neighborhood about daytime safety and travel between jobs.
How To Help
Anyone who recognizes the man in the footage or who saw the attack is asked to contact Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720‑913‑STOP (7867) or submit a tip online. Tips can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward. Metro Denver Crime Stoppers notes its tip line is available 24/7 for anonymous submissions. For details on submitting a tip, see Metro Denver Crime Stoppers.
Hernandez has asked anyone who recognizes the man in the video to contact authorities. Investigators are reviewing the footage and following leads.
