Assault on the MKT Trail near the Forum Boulevard entrance

At 8:02 p.m., Columbia Police officers responded to the MKT Trail near the Forum Boulevard entrance in reference to an assault. Prior to officers' arrival, Boone County Joint Communications advised a female victim, 26, had suffered injuries from being struck by an object multiple times.

The preliminary investigation revealed the victim was walking on the trail when she was grabbed by a white male suspect and struck several times with an object. The suspect then fled on foot in an eastbound direction on the trail. The victim was transported by medical personnel to a local hospital for treatment. Officers were later advised the victim was conscious and her injuries were considered non-life-threatening.

The Downtown Unit, K-9 Unit, Forensic Evidence Team, and Criminal Investigations Division all assisted with the investigation. The Downtown Unit drove the trail in the department Gator, while a K-9 officer conducted an article search in the area. Both searches were unsuccessful and the suspect is still at large.

The Columbia Police Department urges trail users to be alert and contact law enforcement immediately should you notice any suspicious persons or behavior.

If you have any information on this incident, please contact the Columbia Police Department, or call CrimeStoppers at (573) 875-TIPS to remain anonymous.

2016-008746