CALGARY -- Police are searching for a man who is believed to have attacked a woman downtown in broad daylight.

About 10:20 a.m. Monday, a woman in her 20s was walking south on 3 St. S.W., between 6 Ave. and 7 Ave., when a man approached her and exposed himself.

The woman yelled, but the man grabbed her and tried to drag her into an alley on the west side of 6 Ave.

She fought back and tried to flag down a taxi, but for some reason, it didn't stop.

The woman then dialed 911 on her cellphone and the suspect fled.

Staff Sgt. Sean Crawford said it's worrisome the woman was attacked in the middle of the morning, but said the incident may have been triggered by the fact there were fewer people than usual downtown because of the Thanksgiving holiday.

"That may have factored-in -- it was a crime of opportunity," said Crawford. "But it is definitely concerning."

He said the woman was fortunate as her response helped her flight to safety.

"She did what her instincts told her to do and she was successful in breaking loose," said Crawford, adding he recommends walking in pairs no matter what time of day it is and constantly being aware of your surroundings.

The suspect is Caucasian, about 27 to 33 years old, 5-ft.- 11 in. to 6 ft. tall, 170 lbs., with a slim to average build and pale complexion.

He had dark brown hair and several days of beard growth.

He was wearing jeans, a black jacket over a grey hoodie, work boots and possibly a toque.

He was described as scruffy and unkempt.

Anyone with information is asked to call District 1 at 403-567-6100 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

JENNA.MCMURRAY@SUNMEDIA.CA