Bend woman says stranger groped her on River Trail run

Bend police said Wednesday they are seeking witnesses, tips or other information after a woman said she was groped by a man as she ran with her two dogs along the Deschutes River Canyon Trail Saturday night.

Officers responded at 9:15 p.m. to the reported incident, which occurred on the east side of the river, in a secluded area near the southern footbridge, Lt. Clint Burleigh said.

When officers arrived, they contacted a 45-year-old Bend woman who said she had been running with her dogs on the trail prior to being assaulted.

The woman told police she noticed a male approaching her and she attended to her dogs to accommodate both of them to be on the trail.

As the woman was tending to one of her dogs, she said, the man walked past her and grabbed her waist and buttock areas. The woman said she was able to get away, but one of her dogs ran off during the attack.

Bend police conducted an extensive search for the man, including thepolice K-9 team of Officer Kevin Uballez and “Kim” and the deployment of a drone, but did not find him, Burleigh said.

The woman was able to give a limited description of the suspect, as the assault occurred quickly and at dusk. Burleigh said. He is believed to be 20 to 40 years old, with an average build. The woman believes he was wearing dark pants and a jacket or a zip-up “hoodie.” sweatshirt.

Later Saturday evening, the female was reunited with her lost dog.

Burleigh said there were no other reports of similar incidents Saturday..

“The Bend Police Department is currently investigating this incident, as we want to ensure the safety of our community and visitors alike as they enjoy everything Bend has to offer,” the lieutenant said in a news release.

Police asked residents to advise if they have witnessed any type of similar occurrence on the Deschutes River Trail or if they witnessed this event, by calling Deschutes County 911 at 541-693-6911.