West Chester police have increased patrols near Everhart Park after a woman was assaulted on a trail Oct. 13.
The attack happened shortly before 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 13, in the 500 block of Dean Street, about half a mile from West Chester University's campus, according to the Daily Local. We reported Oct. 14 when police first released the suspect's description.
No arrest has been made.
Chief of Police Josh Lee urged residents to take precautions while the department investigates. In a statement, Lee said he commended the victim for reporting the incident and encouraged residents to walk with others when possible, stay in well-lit areas, carry a cell phone and stay aware of their surroundings.
"I encourage everyone to exercise safe practices out in the community … To report any suspicious activity, please call 911," Lee said.
The victim was walking on a trail in the area when an unknown man approached and assaulted her, according to police. She pushed him away and fled.
Police described the suspect as a Black man in his early 20s, clean-shaven, approximately 6 feet tall with a thin build and a dark complexion. He was wearing a black durag and a gray or silver hooded jacket. He was last seen running northbound toward Everhart Park at 6:58 p.m.
Investigators initially released trail camera footage from a resident, and higher-quality photos have since been provided to police and media outlets, Fox 29 reported.
The trail near Dean Street connects to Everhart Park, an area popular with runners, families and West Chester University students. Ryan Phillips, who regularly works out at Everhart Park, told Fox 29 the park is usually full of activity.
"It's usually very active … with kids, moms and dads playing, and a lot of runners passing by," Phillips said.
Fox 29 reported that the increased police presence near Dean Street has offered some reassurance, but residents said they are anxious for an arrest.
Anyone with information about the suspect can contact the West Chester Police Department at 610-696-2700, referencing incident number WC-26-29110.







