SFPD Arrest Juvenile In Connection With String Of Attacks On Panhandle Cyclists
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS)— San Francisco Police have arrested a juvenile in connection with a string of attacks on bicyclists in Golden Gate Park's Panhandle during September and October. However, police are still eyeing other possible suspects.
There were a half dozen attacks, all late at night. In one case a cyclist was smashed in the head with a bottle and in another the attacker shoved a stick in the bikes wheel spokes.
Police officer Gordon Shyy said the investigation is still active
"We do believe that a group was working together, so we do believe that there are other suspects that need to be brought to justice. We are working on that at this point," he said.
Leah Shahum of the San Francisco Bicycle Coalition is pleased that police took the attacks seriously and staked out the panhandle with extra officers.
"Thankfully we have not heard of anymore incidents and that is very encouraging. We definitely talk to folks who ride to the Panhandle regularly and people are feeling comfortable and safe," Shahum said.
Several bikes were stolen during the attacks and at least one reportedly appeared soon after on Craigslist. While thieves seem to have left the area, it's a reminder to everyone to be careful when out on the streets of San Francisco, especially late at night.
