A woman was sexually assaulted Tuesday morning outside her Essex County home, according to the prosecutor’s office.

Authorities would not say exactly where the assault happened, but say that the suspect followed the victim to her Maplewood home, forced his way inside and assaulted her.

The woman was treated at the hospital and released.

The assaulted happened around 11:30 a.m. Tuesday. Police say that they are increasing patrols in the area.

Maplewood residents say that they are shocked and concerned because the suspect is still on the loose.

“It’s a little frightening. This is a small, very friendly town,” says resident Jennifer Shapiro. “I get home late sometimes off the train, I don’t really have a care in the world, so that’s very scary to think about.”

“I always leave the back door open for when I’m home, but today, after reading that, I locked the screen door,” says Marli Craig.

Police are telling residents to make sure their homes are secure and to be aware of their surroundings.

Anyone who may have any information about the assault should contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.