Woman reportedly sexually assaulted by unknown male in Davis park, police say
The Davis Police Department is advising residents near Slide Hill Park to stay alert and review any surveillance video after a woman reported she was sexually assaulted by an unknown male.
Dan Beckwith with Davis police said the assault occurred on Dec. 19 between 7 and 8 p.m. while the victim was walking through the park.
"It's not a normal instance in this town." said Beckwith. "This is the only instance so far that we've received."
Officials described the suspect as a male with a lighter complexion. He was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with the hood pulled over his head, dark pants and a mask that covered his face up to his eyes.
Davis police ask any residents near the park with surveillance cameras facing the street, sidewalk or park to contact officers.
"Even if it doesn't catch the park directly," said Beckwith. "That could be critically important evidence for us."
Anyone with information about the assault is urged to contact Davis police at 530-747-5400 or email policeweb@cityofdavis.org.
Residents on edge
Asha Tarvins works and lives near Slide Hill Park.
"To hear that happened so close to home and so recently," said Tarvins. "It's scary."
She said many women walk or run in that park throughout the day, including herself when she wants some fresh air during her lunch break.
"It doesn't feel as safe," said Tarvins.
Now Tarvins wonders if she has to do more to keep herself safe.
"Makes me kind of feel like maybe I need to keep protection," said Tarvins. "Now it's like— you never know."
See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter