When Crime Hits, a Reminder to Buddy Up in the Wissahickon

Bad news came from the Wissahickon this week.  while runningnear Cresheim Creek and Devil's Pool on Monday, according to police. Police also said the man attempted to sexually assault the 17-year old, though the teen was able to fight off the assailant and escape the scene.

There has been speculation that the attack is connected with other rape incidents and one murder in Fairmount Park in recent years, but police have not yet officially made that connection.

Police described the suspect as a Hispanic male between 5 feet 9 inches and 5 feet 11 inches. He was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, and black pants, either sweatpants or jogging pants.  

The man is described as having “broad, muscular shoulders,” McFadden said. Because his face was obscured by the hooded sweatshirt, the victim “didn’t really get a good look at his face.”

As , the incident reinforces the fact that it's never a bad idea to take to the park's trails with a companion.

The Friends of the Wissahickon has a list of safety tips posted on its website, and it recommends being in the park with someone else whenever possible. It also warns against using headphones and encourages people to vary their routines.

There are a variety of groups that organize hikes or runs through the Wissahickon. Hiking Around Philly has regular gatherings, as do the Friends of the Wissahickon. And members of the Shawmont Running Club and the Wissahickon Wanderers run regularly through the park.

Please use the comments section below if you're looking for others to exercise with or spend time with in the Wissahickon.