An assault on the Hinkson Creek Trail near the Grindstone Nature Area occurred earlier today, according to an MU Police Department Clery Release.
The release said MUPD received the report around 11:25 a.m July 5, however the Columbia Police Department’s news release said MUPD and the City of Columbia Park Ranger were dispatched at 11:15 a.m. Students were notified of the incident at 3:07 p.m. via email.
According to the MUPD release, a man passed the female victim several times on his bike while she was running, the victim reported. The suspect allegedly stopped near Capen Bridge and grabbed the victim’s butt while she passed him, according to the MUPD and CPD releases. After yelling at the man, the female ran away down the trail, according to the MUPD clery release.
According to the CPD news release, the man continued riding his bicycle ahead of her. The man allegedly stopped near Hinkson Field on the trail and began masturbating. Upon seeing this, the female ran to an emergency phone on MU’s campus to contact MUPD.
“MUPD reminds the community to take safety precautions and remain aware of your surroundings,” the clery release stated. “Report suspicious activity on campus to the University Police Department. It is important to remember you can do everything properly and still be the victim of a crime. By taking crime prevention measures and being alert you can reduce your chances of being a victim.”
MUPD rode bicycles along the trail in search of the suspect, who they were unable to find. City of Columbia Park Ranger is in charge of the ongoing investigation.
According to the releases, the suspect is a hispanic or black male in his early 20s. He’s approximately 6” to 6’1” tall and 160 pounds. He is described as wearing a baggy, light colored t-shirt, cargo-style shorts, tennis shoes, a flat brim ball cap and a backpack. He was last seen riding a small dark colored bicycle.
Individuals with information are encouraged to contact CPD or Crime Stoppers at (573) 875-TIPS to remain anonymous.
_Follow The Maneater for any updates on the investigation._
