By David Fleet

Editor

Atlas Twp.- The Genesee County Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate a township assault that could be linked to two other similar crimes.

At approximately 5:30 p.m., Oct. 7, a 36-year-old mother was jogging on the wooded cross country trail located behind Oaktree Elementary School, 7500 Gale Road, when a male assailant came out from behind a tree and attacked her. The victim’s 7-year-old son, who was running behind his mother, began screaming at the alleged assailant who fled the scene.

“The mother was kicking and fighting for her life,” said Genesee County Sheriff Robert Pickell.

“After she fought him off she had the presence of mind to get up and run through the woods to find her 11-year-old daughter who was nearby. That’s where she saw the assailant’s car pull away.”

Sheriff investigators believe the assailant cased the area out the night before.

“We have video that shows the car near the scene—he was not sitting on a blind spot,” he said. “He walked out on the trail and hid there. And we believe the intent was not sexual; rather, he was just there to pummel the victim. Her eye was swollen and required medical attention.”

There were a lot of leads and plenty of call-ins regarding the assault, added Pickell.

“There’s a sense of urgency to find this person since similar assault cases occurred in Davison and Livonia,” he said. “He will strike again.”

The male is described as very physically fit, dark skin, 6-foot-1 inch tall, very muscular and clean-looking appearance. He was seen driving a Black Chevy Tahoe, 2007-2013 body style, tinted windows, after-market chrome rims and roof rack. He was wearing green shorts and a gray shirt that had a yellow and green emblem on it.

“I want to remind everyone– especially women – if you’re on a walking path or jogging path, don’t go alone, have a cell phone and pepper spray with you at all times,” Pickell said.

Any information regarding the case call 810-257-3422. Check out thecitizenonline.com for new developments.

Go to thecitizenonline.com for updates on this case.