Police in York Regional are looking for a male suspect they believe is responsible for a string of sexual assaults in Newmarket.

At least four women have been sexually assaulted near Upper Canada Mall in the last two months, police say. Investigators believe the same man is responsible for all of the assaults.

The most recent attack occurred on Tuesday morning in the area of Yonge Street and Green Lane. Police rushed to the scene, but the suspect had fled.

Officers have set up a command post in the northwest corner of the mall as they try to track down the suspect.

Investigators say the level of violence in the attacks has escalated. One of the victims was thrown to the ground and the suspect tried to remove her pants before a resident intervened, while others were touched inappropriately as they walked by.

Police say all of the victims were distracted by their cellphones or headphones at the time of the assaults and are warning women in the area to be cautious when walking alone.

“We’re also asking all the females in the area of Newmarket to be very vigilant when you’re out walking,” said Const. Andy Pattenden. “If you can, walk in pairs. But if that’s not practical, please take the earbuds out of your ears, please refrain from using cellphones, and please be aware of your surroundings.”

The suspect is described as a white male with a thin build who wears a hoodie over his face.

Anyone with information about the suspects is asked to contact York police at 905-764-1300.

With a report from John Musselman