Richmond police are investigating a series of sexual assaults that have been reported in Point Richmond in recent weeks.
“These assaults have taken place during daylight and early evening hours, primarily targeting individuals who were jogging or exercising alone,” Richmond police shared on Facebook. “We understand that these incidents are deeply concerning and want to assure the public that we are dedicating all available resources to identify and apprehend the suspect.”
According to a press releases shared with Richmondside by department spokesperson Lt. Donald Patchin, three attacks in total took place on June 8, June 11 and July 15. All three attacks took place in the Point Richmond Tunnel.
Police said a man, who they describe as Black, between 40 and 50 years old and about 5-foot-7 to 6-feet tall, is approaching walkers or runners and making unwanted physical contact before fleeing.
“Based on the locations of these incidents and the suspect’s description, it is believed that the same individual is responsible for these three sexual assaults,” the press release said. “The Richmond Police Department Special Victims Unit is actively investigating these cases.”
According to a post on Nextdoor by Point Richmond resident Emma Mueller, one of the attacks, which involved a woman, happened at about 9:30 a.m. Tuesday inside of the Point Richmond Tunnel.
“I was bringing some books to the lending library behind The Plunge and heard screaming and went to go check, she got away by the time I got there with the help of a driver noticing something off in the tunnel,” Mueller wrote. “Police came within minutes, but (the) male still got away.”
Police are encouraging residents who see something suspicious to call 911. Anyone who might have information about the case can call Detective Alyssa Alvarado at 510-621-1711 or email her at AAlvarado@richmondpd.net.
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The tunnel really needs more lighting, especially on the pedestrian walkway. I often bike through there and can’t hardly see, even during the day.
Thanks so much for reporting on this. I run through the tunnel multiple times each week and really appreciate knowing this, especially as a woman. If possible, it would be great to run an update on this story when y’all can!