Police: Suspect Sought In Easton Jogger Attack
by Diana Rocco
EASTON, Pa., (CBS) -- Police in Easton are looking for a man who they say grabbed a jogger from behind and punched her.
It happened on the Arts Trail last Tuesday afternoon.
A woman attacked on a quiet wooded trail. Now police say this is the man they are looking for.
While the signs may say its safe, walkers and runners are feeling otherwise.
"Oh my God, it's scary. I work until 5, but I'm usually walking this trail until downtown Easton for about an hour, an hour and a half, so it's quite scary," says Lily Salinas.
Police say the 40-year-old jogger approached from behind, thrown to the ground and punched in the face.
It happened last Tuesday just after 4:30 p.m. on the Karl Stirner Arts Trail in Easton near this gate, about a half mile from the start. She was able to struggle free and he ran. Lily Salinas say after hearing that she'll no longer be walking alone as she has so many other times before.
"I always walk with with music on. Now I'm a little nervous because you should really be aware of your surroundings," she says.
"I saw the police officers up here two times," says Charles Owens. "I was wondering what happened. I usually walk about two miles, and the other day I saw them driving a car back out of here."
The man is described as a Hispanic male, in his late teens or early twenties, about 5'10", about 180 to 190 pounds, with dark spike style hair. He was last seen wearing a red shirt, black jeans, and carrying a black string style backpack.
Police believe the suspect is from the area and say its possible he may return. They increased patrols and asked all women not to walk or run alone.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Easton Police. Det. Snyder can be reached at 610-250-6637, or callers can remain anonymous by calling the tip line, 610-250-6635.
