It has been reported that a Toronto man accused of sexually assaulting and severely beating a 61-year-old woman visiting a cemetery made an initial court appearance Thursday.

The Toronto Sun has reported that Russell Kirkpatrick, 44, is charged with attempted murder and aggravated sexual assault in Monday's attack at Pine Hills Cemetery.

The woman was walking along a paved path when she was beaten and sexually assaulted, The Canadian Broadcasting Corp. has reported. According to the CBC, she lost consciousness, but later came to and found a security guard who called for help.

The CBC also reported that she was taken to the hospital with serious head injuries.

Cemetery attack suspect in court

The Sun also said that Kirkpatrick, who was arrested on Wednesday, had injuries to his face and blood on his orange jumpsuit when he appeared in court.

Kirkpatrick's attorney, Tyler Smith, said outside the courtroom afterward, "I don't know how those (injuries) were inflicted but they appear to be serious and he was in pain."

The Sun added further that City police Constable Tony Vella said the victim, who had been visiting her mother's grave, remained hospitalized.

He said, "Her injuries are pretty serious." (With Inputs from Agencies)