Carbondale Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying and locating a male suspect that may be responsible for two attempted sexual assaults in the area.
The most recent incident happened in the early hours of last Saturday morning when an adult female was grabbed on a bike path near Highway 133 and Village Road. The male suspect attacked from behind, touched the woman inappropriately and physically assaulted her. The victim was able to get away from the suspect and was treated at Valley View Hospital. The suspect is described as a Hispanic male, approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall.
Carbondale Police say that the attack is very similar to another incident that happened in late June when another female victim was assaulted in Gianietti Park near midnight. The woman was able to fend off the attack and scare the suspect away. Police so far don’t have any direct evidence that the two cases are related, but say that it’s possible the same suspect is responsible for both.
Police Chief Gene Schilling is urging all residents to stay aware of their surroundings and to use extra caution especially at night by not walking alone.
Anyone with information about either case is asked to contact Carbondale Police.
