PORTLAND, Ore. -- A renowned Portland author fought off a suspected purse snatcher Tuesday afternoon, police said.

Katherine Dunn, 65, was in the area of Northwest 21st Avenue and Glisan Street at about 4:15 p.m. when 25-year-old Brandy Carroll tried to take her purse, officers said.

Dunn said the struggle lasted several minutes on the front step of her apartment building until a neighbor hear Dunn's cry for help and intervened.

"She kicked me in the legs and slapped my face, so I began to punch her," Dunn said. "I yelled 'Help! She's trying to rob me,' and she yelled 'No! She's trying to rob me, trying to take my stuff,' which I thought was pretty sharp of her."

Two clerks from the Trader Joe's grocery store ran from across the street, saying the suspect was shoplifting at the store and apparently followed Dunn.

Carroll fled the scene, Portland police said, but was caught a few blocks away.

She was arrested on charges of third-degree robbery, first-degree theft and resisting arrest, according to Portland police, and was booked at the Multnomah County Jail.

Dunn said she was treated by a doctor for scratches on her neck and eye.

"She was high, probably on some form of speed. She was, I think, extraordinarily strong for her size," Dunn said.

The author said she's lived in Portland for 34 years and has never been the victim of a crime. Dunn, who is also known for her writing on boxing, said being in the gym helped her fight off the woman.

"I didn't just write about it, I tried to learn about the sport by going to gyms and working with coaches. So, I think the practice in gyms, even though I never competed, was very useful," Dunn said.

Neighbors said the crime is unusual in their part of northwest Portland.

"It just seems like a random occurrence, one that happens generally late at night. In the day, it's different. So, it makes one a little uncomfortable but I'm not really concerned about my safety," said August Nord.

Dunn is an acclaimed author and journalist who wrote "Geek Love," which was a finalist for the National Book Award.

Portland Author Fights Off Purse Snatcher