Woman reports attempted abduction on Centennial Trial

A woman walking along the Centennial Trail near the Monroe Street Bridge told Spokane Police on Monday that an unknown male came up from behind her and tried to abduct her with a knife.

The woman said she was walking along the trail just after noon when a man grabbed her from behind, Cpl. Ronald Van Tassel said in a news release.

“The male attempted to drag her off the trail and had a large knife with him,” Van Tassell said. “After some struggle and screaming, the male let her go and she was able to flee the area.”

Officers responded and searched the area, but could not find a man fitting the description given by the woman.

She described the man as white or possibly Native American with black hair. He was shorter, stocky and had a large knife. The woman could not describe what he was wearing, Van Tassel said.

He reminded hikers listening to music to remain aware of their surroundings and Van Tassel suggested that joggers should consider carrying pepper spray.

“With Spring time around the corner, we are going to see more activity on the local trails,” he wrote. “Please call crime check if something seems suspicious or 911 if an incident is actively happening.”