Crime & Safety

Police: Woman Assaulted on W & OD Trail

Fairfax County Police seeking suspect in Tuesday assault and abduction incident on Reston/Herndon border.

Fairfax County Police are looking for clues in an alleged abduction and assault Tuesday on the W & OD Trail on the Reston/Herndon border.

A 31-year-old woman told police she was attacked around 7 p.m. while walking along the W & OD Trail.

The woman entered the trail off of Reston Avenue and was near the overpass for Herndon Parkway when she noticed a man following her. Near Sunset Hills Road and the  the woman was dragged off of the path into a wooded area, police public information officer Don Gotthardt said.

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The victim struggled with her attacker, who eventually fled north onto a gravel horse trail. The victim did not require medical attention, police said.

Police describe the suspect as heavyset, about 25 years old. He was clean shaven and he had short, black hair. He was wearing glasses, a dark jacket and dark jeans.

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Police urge anyone planning to walk along more secluded trails, away from common view, to consider walking with a friend. Do not wear ear buds or earphones, be aware of your surroundings, and tell someone where you are going before you leave.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS/8477, e-mail atwww.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text “TIP187” plus your message to CRIMES/274637 or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.


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