Authorities in Harris County have launched a search for a man who attacked a woman along a Houston greenway, in a case that has put walkers in the area on alert. The assault took place along White Oak Bayou in the Inwood area, where the woman had been out walking before she was set upon by a stranger.
According to the Precinct 1 Constable's Office, the man attempted to sexually assault the woman and to drown her during the attack. It was an ordeal that could easily have turned deadly, unfolding in a stretch of bayou that many residents use for exercise and recreation.
The woman, however, managed to save herself. Officials say she fought back against her attacker, broke free and escaped, then made her way to Precinct 1 deputies to report what had happened. Her account has become the basis for the search now unfolding across the area.
Investigators have released a description of the man they are trying to find. He is described as a black male in his 20s who is missing his front teeth, and who was seen with a bike and a black backpack, details officials hope will help someone recognize him.
The struggle may also have left the suspect with identifying marks. The victim told authorities that she believes she injured one of his eyes and pulled his hair as she fought to get away, potentially leaving visible signs that could aid in identifying him.
With the man still at large, the Precinct 1 Constable's Office is appealing for the public's help and urging anyone with information about the attack or the suspect's identity to contact Crime Stoppers. In the meantime, the case has prompted fresh warnings for people to stay alert while out along the bayou.