Lexington Police are investigating two separate incidents involving teenage girls on the Minuteman Bikeway, prompting safety concerns and heightened patrols along the popular trail.
According to a statement by the Lexington Police Department, both incidents occurred between 5 and 6:30 p.m. on July 26 and July 27 near the Great Meadows area, close to the Arlington town line. In each case, a man exhibiting erratic behavior approached teen girls on the path and attempted to physically grab them. The suspect reportedly fled when others began to approach.
The individual has been described as a white male between the ages of 30 and 40, approximately 6 feet tall, with a lanky build. At the time of the incidents, he was seen wearing a green hooded sweatshirt, blue shorts, a respirator-style mask, and noticeably no shoes or socks.
In response, Lexington Police have increased patrols along the bikeway, deploying officers on bicycles to more effectively monitor the trail.
“We have increased our presence on the bike path and in the area of road crossings,” Lexington Police Chief Michael McLean told LexObserver.
The bikeway, which spans multiple towns including Bedford, Lexington, Arlington and Cambridge, is frequented by cyclists, joggers and pedestrians. The recent incidents have drawn attention to the need for continued vigilance, even in areas typically viewed as safe.
“I use the trail quite often for my regular commute, but I also run a lot during sundown with the expectation that it is safe,” Lexington resident Kyuri Lee said. “Given this incident, though, I will definitely watch out more.”
In addition to concerns over the assaults, the Minuteman Bikeway has also drawn safety concerns due to limited width.
“When bikers are moving faster, passing can be difficult, especially when the opposite lane is occupied. I try to stay to the side as much as possible to avoid collisions,” Lee told LexObserver.
As of August 5, Lexington Police are still searching for the suspect.
“This is an ongoing investigation and we will be making a statement when further information is discovered,” Chief McLean said. “We are collaborating with area police departments to identify the subject and investigating all leads.”
Lexington Police are asking for the community to remain alert and report any suspicious activity.
“We encourage anyone utilizing the bike path to follow safe practices, be vigilant of their surroundings and call 911 immediately if approached by this subject,” Chief McLean said.
Anyone else with information is asked to contact the Lexington Police Department at 781-862-1212 or reach out directly to Detective Michael Sowle at msowle@lexingtonma.gov.
Thank you for highlighting these assaults, as well as the collision dangers on the Minuteman Trail. As some may remember, a cyclist was killed and another–if memory serves–was seriously injured when the two had a head-on collision at speed on the Minuteman. Please be careful!