Woman reports attack near Cedar Lake

CEDAR RAPIDS - A woman reported she was attacked while running Tuesday, police said.

Cedar Rapids public safety spokesman Greg Buelow said a 30-year-old woman told police she was jogging alone on the trail near Cedar Lake around 3:50 p.m. Tuesday. She said a man tapped her on the shoulder and asked if he could run with her. When she declined, he tried to grab and push her toward the wooded area northwest of Cedar Lake. Police said the man also tried to grab the woman's cellphone.

When the woman alerted another jogger about what was happening, the suspect fled, police said. Responding officers were unable to find him.

Buelow said the police department has increased patrols in the area and police volunteers are patrolling the trail.

The suspect was described as 6 feet 4 inches tall. He wore a white sweatshirt, blue hat and jeans.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at (319) 286-5491.

In the meantime, police recommend runners use the buddy system, carry a cellphone for emergencies, let others know where and when they will be jogging or walking, and be alert to their surroundings.