Today, at 2:14 p.m., Eugene Police received a report from a 16-year-old female of an man’s attempt to grab her yesterday at 3:58 p.m. She was walking eastbound on the bike path that parallels W. 11th near Oakpatch, behind Shari’s restaurant. He approached her and tried to offer her alcohol. She refused and he grabbed her arm and tried to pull her off the bike path. She kicked the man, who fell, and at that time, she got loose and left the area.
The man is described as a white male in his 40s, with a heavier build, bald and clean shaven, with dirty clothing and smelling strongly of beer.
For info call Officer Aaron Johns at 541.790.5149.
Police applaud the girl’s ability to fight back and get loose from a dangerous situation.
GENERAL PERSONAL SAFETY TIPS
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times
- Do not get into someone’s car even if they display a weapon. It is better to fight back in the street where help is closer at hand and other people may hear your calls for help.
- Walk confidently and don’t avoid eye contact
- Don’t let strangers into your ‘space.’ Keep plenty of distance between yourself and people you don’t wish to approach you.
- Don’t stop to talk with strangers asking for directions or other types of help as this can be a ploy to get close for an attack.
- If you feel you are in danger or being followed, call 9-1-1
- If grabbed, fight back and make as much noise as possible.
- Use the buddy system when walking after dark or in ‘fringe’ areas, which are places there are fewer people travelling, allowing them a chance to victimize you without chancing witnesses. You should know the person you are walking with well enough to trust them.
- Walk in lighted areas as much as possible and don’t walk too close to bushes, alleyways or other places where attackers can conceal themselves.