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Man wanted for allegedly sexually assaulting, robbing victim at Memorial Park

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Published  October 13, 2021 9:39pm CDT
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FOX 26 Houston

HPD searching for suspect following attack at Memorial Park

FOX 26 Reporter Matthew Seedorff spoke with joggers about their feelings following an attack at Memorial Park on September 29.

HOUSTON - The Houston Police Department continues to investigate a possible sexual assault that took place at Memorial Park on September 29 around 11:30 p.m. We’re told the victim was robbed and sexually assaulted in the area of East Memorial Loop Drive.

"During the incident, the suspect attacked the victim, held a sharp object close to their neck, and threatened them with a gun in an attempt to steal their belongings," said a spokesperson from Houston Crime Stoppers. "The suspect also sexually assaulted the victim numerous times during the incident."

RELATED: Police investigating possible sexual assault case at popular Houston park

Every Wednesday, dozens of runners gather at Kung Fu Saloon to run together for the Kung Fu Running Club. Many say they like running together for social and safety reasons.

"For me, it’s a safety thing, just running with group," said Stacy Oglesby. "Unfortunately I’m not surprised at all. There’s been multiple attacks on the trails. It’s unfortunately something we have to be very aware of."

"[The attack] is pretty disappointing," said Natalie Garcia. "[Memorial Park] is one of the few places in Houston I thought was a safe place."

MORE CRIME AND PUBLIC SAFETY NEWS

On Wednesday, Houston Crime Stoppers released new surveillance photos of a man wanted by police for the alleged attack. The suspect is described as a, "Black male in his 30’s early 40’s, approximately 6’03", heavy set 250-280 pounds. With a face tattoo on his right cheekbone and tattoos on his arms."

"Never run alone. Especially, when it gets dark out," said Garcia. "Being a girl, it’s nice to have a group of friends that you can run with and feel safe with."

Some say they’d like to now see an increase in security measures at Memorial Park.

"You see cops few and far between," said Ryan Terry. "In my opinion, it’s not enough. I feel like there should be some paid security that patrols there at night."

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So far, no arrests have been made. If you have any information about this case, you’re urged to call police or Crime Stoppers. You could earn a reward of up to $5,000.