Authorities are probing into a series of assaults along the Bosque trail system near the Rio Grande that are possibly connected. The string of assaults raised alarm among residents who frequent the popular recreational area.
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office said detectives are investigating at least three incidents reported over the past five weeks on the west side of the river, north of Alameda Boulevard. Probers say the suspect descriptions across the attacks bear striking similarities. Witnesses said the suspect is a man dressed mostly in black and armed with a blade or what appeared to be a firearm.
Officials have not yet confirmed whether the same person is responsible for all three incidents. But detectives said the assault pattern warrants public vigilance.
Pattern of assaults
The first encounter, according to the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, occurred on February 2 along the Bosque Trail Network. Investigators said the suspect pointed what the victim believed was a firearm, then forced the victim to the ground, and cut the victim’s pants in the groin area. The victim did not report any physical injury due to the assault.
The victim described the suspect as wearing all black clothing, including a black face mask, gloves, and goggles.
Almost a month later, on March 1, another assault was reported in the same area. A male victim told investigators he was attacked with a box cutter. He sustained minor injuries. He also described the suspect again as wearing an entirely black outfit.
A third encounter occurred on March 8. The incident involved a woman riding a horse along the trail. Authorities say a man approached her while holding a knife and threatened to stab the horse. The woman and the animal were not harmed.
In the third case, the suspect was described as wearing a black hoodie and blue pants. The victim believed the suspect is around 30 years old.
Public urged to stay alert
The incidents have alarmed trail users who frequent the Bosque area for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Some individuals suggest the need for regular patrols in the area. Other netizens, commenting on the Sheriff’s Office’s social media post, said, “Some routine police security would help.”
Law enforcement authorities say the series of assaults appears to be concentrated along the west side of the river corridor north of Alameda.
The sheriff’s office is urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area or who may have information about a person matching the suspect’s description, to contact the Axon Community Request portal.
Authorities advised the public using the Bosque trails to remain aware of their surroundings and report suspicious behavior. Investigators are asking the public to share any photos, videos, or tips that could help identify the suspect.