Houston police are searching for a man believed to be responsible for a series of assaults on women along city trails, releasing a composite sketch as investigators increase patrols and urge residents to remain cautious.
Nearly a dozen women reported attacks in recent months on the Buffalo Bayou, White Oak Bayou and Brays Bayou trails. Victims said the man often approached them from behind on a bicycle before groping or assaulting them.
Several of the incidents occurred during daylight hours, alarming residents who frequently use the trails for exercise, commuting and recreation.
One of the most violent cases happened July 31, when a pregnant woman was robbed and kicked in the stomach while on the Buffalo Bayou Trail near Allen Parkway. She later suffered a miscarriage, an outcome that caused widespread outrage across Houston and prompted renewed calls for a stronger police response.
The suspect is described as a heavyset white man in his mid-30s with brown hair. Witnesses said he was last seen riding a navy blue or dark green bicycle and often wears a red helmet and black and white shoes. Police believe the same individual may be linked to multiple assaults across the city’s trail network.
Police also released a composite sketch of the suspect, described as a heavyset white man in his mid-30s with brown hair, often seen riding a navy blue or dark green bicycle with a red helmet and black and white shoes.
In response, HPD has expanded patrols in city parks and along trails, including deploying mounted officers near Buffalo Bayou and increasing visibility at high-traffic locations. Additional units were also sent to Shepherd Park after two women narrowly escaped attempted assaults in the area.
Community members say the repeated incidents have shaken their confidence in public safety and forced changes in daily routines. Some women are now choosing to walk only in groups, carry pepper spray or personal alarms, or avoid trails entirely. For many, the attacks have transformed spaces once associated with health and leisure into places of anxiety.
Local officials have encouraged residents to stay vigilant but stressed that police presence has been increased to reassure the public.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the suspect to contact Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-TIPS (8477). Tips can remain anonymous, and rewards are available for information leading to an arrest.
The investigation is ongoing.
