Lebanon
Lebanon Police Chief Richard Mello said his department has increased patrols in the area and has remained in close contact with officials at DHMC, who have also taken steps to ensure public safety.
“We will have a bigger presence in that area in the immediate future, and we are advising people to use caution anywhere in the city when walking or hiking alone after dark,” Mello said. “Be aware of your surroundings and report anything suspicious to police.”
A possible motive and specific details of what transpired on the trail around 5 p.m. are part of the ongoing investigation.
The attack appears to be random, Mello said.
A woman told police the attacker came up behind her on the trail, threw her to the ground and physically assaulted her. She fought back and the man ran down the trail toward the parking lot and left in a darker colored sedan, police said in a news release issued Sunday night.
The woman sustained minor injuries and declined treatment. Her identity is being withheld.
Officials are searching for a white man, age 18-25, 6-feet tall, with shaggy dark blond hair, fair skin and a medium build.
Mello has urged anyone who witnessed the incident or who may have seen the man to contact police.
The incident took place on the trail that leads to a nearby water tower, which is located almost directly across from physician and staff parking lots.
On Monday, DHMC’s Director of Safety and Security Dan Dahmen sent out a statement to all hospital staff about the attack.
To ensure safety, the department has offered to escort employees to their vehicles after shifts.
DHMC Spokesman Rick Adams said only a few more people than normal have taken advantage of the service.
Dahmen also suggested staff walk with a friend, stay in well-lit areas, carry a whistle on a key chain and walk with keys in-hand.
“As always, if employees see suspicious individuals or circumstances, they should immediately contact the security office,” he said.
Jordan Cuddemi can be reached at jcuddemi@vnews.com or 603-727-3248.