Police: 3 unconfirmed rapes in 5 days near Autzen

By KVAL News Published: Jul 3, 2012 at 4:50 PM PDT

EUGENE, Ore. - Police are urging caution after unconfirmed reports a man or men raped as many as three women at knifepoint near Autzen Stadium.

"Police have learned from second and third hand sources that there may have been three separate rapes within a five-day period near Chase Village and Autzen Stadium, beginning Thursday, June 28," the Eugene Police Department said in a press release.

"No female victims have come forward or wish to file a report, so the information is unverified," police said. "Due to the seriousness of the information, which seems credible, Eugene Police Department is advising residents and visitors in the area to observe personal safety precautions as well as to report any relevant  information by calling (541) 682.5111."

Police said that on June 29, a woman was walking alone around 10 p.m. on the bike path near Autzen Stadium when she was raped by a man with a knife. Police described the suspect as a black male, 6-feet tall, 200 pounds, with a muscular build and shaved head.

Police received a second-hand report that two additional female victims were raped within the same week in the same general area. One of these two incidents involved a suspect with a simmilar description.

Police urged citizens to follow these personal safety tips:

  • Use the buddy system when walking after dark. 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
     
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times
     
  • 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.
     
  • 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.