BETHESDA, Md. -
Police in Montgomery County say a 21-year-old woman has reported being sexually assaulted on the Capital Crescent Trail in the Bethesda area.
Police say the woman was jogging on the trail Sunday around 7 p.m. She was about half a mile south of Massachusetts Avenue when she stopped for deer crossing the trail. Police said she was then struck on the head. She woke up in the woods just off the trail. She then called for help and a fellow jogger heard her.
Montgomery County Police spokesman Capt. Paul Starks says the woman was taken to the hospital for treatment for a head wound and that the incident is under investigation. The woman remains hospitalized Monday.
The Capital Crescent Trail runs from Georgetown in Washington to Silver Spring, Md.
Trail users are reminded to follow some basic safety tips when using the trails:
- Never walk alone and always let someone know where you are going.
- Be very observant of your surroundings and of other people. Avoid areas where visibility is poor and don't wear headsets.
- Wear reflective material and carry a whistle or noisemaker.
- Trust your instincts. Don't walk where you feel uncomfortable.
- Program the Park Police Emergency number 301-949-3010 into your cell phone before you leave.
Detectives are asking anyone with information about this crime to contact the Major Crimes Division at 240-773-5070. Those who wish to remain anonymous may call Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477) or leave a Crime Solvers tip at http://www.mccrimesolvers.com. Crime Solvers will pay a cash reward of up to $1,000 for information provided to them that leads to an arrest and/or indictment for this crime.
