Sexual assaults along the popular Maryland route are under investigation

CHEVY CHASE, Md. – A woman was sexually assaulted in broad daylight on Rock Creek Trail in Chevy Chase, Maryland, and the suspect remains at large, according to police.

The attack occurred near the intersection of Woodhollow Drive and Jones Mill Road, near a playground and a busy road. According to neighbors, the woman was traveling with a child in a stroller at the time of the attack.

The incident, reported to Maryland-National Capital Park police around 4 p.m. Tuesday, has caused unease among people who use that portion of the trail.

“I need a partner by my side, otherwise I wouldn’t feel comfortable,” said Lynn, a local resident. “No matter when – whether early or evening – you should feel safe. It’s a public space and that’s inappropriate.”

Police describe the suspect as a black man, approximately 6 feet tall, in his early 20s. He was last seen wearing a black T-shirt, black sweatpants and a tight black cap.

Capt. Tracy Lieberman of the Maryland-National Capital Park Police said the woman tried to flee her attacker and two people on bicycles intervened, deterred the suspect and helped her call police.

“We would really like to have these witnesses, the two people on the bikes, if they could come forward,” Lieberman said.

The woman was taken to a hospital, treated and later released.

In the days following the attack, neighbors reported there was an increased police presence in the area and many were more vigilant about their surroundings.

Police are asking anyone with information to come forward as the search for the suspect continues.