Batavia Police: Female Runner Reports ‘Unsettling Encounter’ on Bike Path
(CREDIT: Google Maps)
A lone female running on a bicycle path in downtown Batavia reported “an unsettling encounter with an unknown male subject” at around 5:20 p.m. Wednesday (Feb. 27, 2019), prompting police to post safety tips for those running and/or using the bike paths.
According to a post on the Batavia Police Department Facebook page, the woman told police she was running on the bike path north of the Houston and Water Street intersection when she became aware that she was being followed by a tall, white male subject with dark hair.
(CREDIT: Google Maps)
The woman ran away from the area, contacted Batavia police and provided a description but police were unable to locate the man.
“Unfortunately, due to a lack of available information, no additional leads on the male subject have emerged,” police said.
Police are offering the following safety tips for those running and/or using bicycle paths or parks:
- Avoid running/walking/biking in dark or unlit areas. Area bike paths and parks close at dusk.
- Don’t wear headphones. Use your ears and eyes to be aware of your surroundings.
- Carry identification or write your information somewhere on your equipment as well as any pertinent medical information, if needed.
- Always stay alert and aware of what’s going on around you.
- Don’t run/walk alone. Always use the buddy system or run with a group.
- Keep your cell phone with you and charged.
- Trust your intuition. If something doesn’t feel right to you, leave the area. Always trust your gut, it’s usually right!
- Wear reflective material and easily seen clothing.
- Call police immediately if something happens to you or someone else.
If you notice anything suspicious be sure to contact police immediately and provide as much specific information as possible. However, remember your safety comes first. Do not risk your safety in order to gather additional information.
SOURCE: Batavia Police Department
