Oakland Woman Dragged by Car for 20 Blocks; Is in Serious Condition

A 37-year-old woman was in serious condition after being dragged for almost 20 blocks at speeds reaching 65 mph Sunday.

Oakland police did not release the name of the woman, who had 40% to 50% of the skin scraped off her body.

Mitchell Smith, 40, of Oakland had driven up to the woman, also of Oakland, and she got into the car with him, said Sgt. Jim Rullamas of the Oakland Police Department.

Police believe the two were smoking a narcotic as Smith drove around, and they began to argue.

The woman tried to get out of the car, but Smith allegedly pushed her and she got tangled in her seat belt, police said.

Police said Smith then slammed the door shut and drove off with the woman hanging from the side of the car.

Rullamas said the woman screamed for Smith to stop, but he sped down the wide street weaving through traffic.

After almost 20 blocks, the woman freed herself.

The charges pending against Smith are attempted murder, driving under the influence and possession of drugs.