Girl Raped On Path Along Charles River In Waltham: Police

WALTHAM, MA — Massachusetts State Police have released more details on two sexual assaults that reportedly took place on the Riverwalk in Waltham this fall, including the rape of a juvenile.

Police said that, on the night of Sept. 14, an underage girl reported that she was walking near the Elm Street entrance to the Riverwalk when she was grabbed from behind, pushed against a tree, and raped and indecently assaulted.

The girl told police she did not turn around to look at her assailant. She also said he did not say anything during the attack and fled when he thought he heard someone approaching.

The second incident took place on the evening of Oct. 20, when a 37 year-old woman reported that she was running on the Riverwalk bike path near Prospect and Crescent Streets when she was approached from behind by a man who touched her inappropriately two separate times.

She told police the assailant was riding a bicycle and did not say anything during the assaults. The woman ran off without confronting the suspect, but described him as either white or Hispanic, of average height and build, and possibly in his 20s or 30s. He was wearing an orange hoodie at the time of the attack.

"Investigations into both incidents are ongoing,” police said. "Visitors to the Riverwalk should always be aware of their surroundings, carry a cell phone, and call 911 immediately if they feel threatened or observe any suspicious activity, and stay in well-lit areas if possible."

State police said they have increased visibility in the area, which is part of the Charles River Reservation.

Anyone with information about either incident is asked to call Troop H Detectives at 617-740-7544.