INDIANAPOLIS — IMPD is reminding the community to stay vigilant and do their part when walking or biking on Indianapolis trails.
Most days, you'll find people out being active and enjoying the weather along the Fall Creek Trail.
One man told 13News his wife was one of the many people enjoying the Fall Creek Trail three weeks ago when that enjoyment came to an abrupt end. He said she was attacked by a man with a combat knife in broad daylight.
He claims the man forced his wife to walk along the trail. He said while other people walked by, a young kid on a bike stopped to help. The man worries what would have happened to his wife if the boy hadn't stopped. The man said the same thing happened to another woman weeks later, also in the middle of the day. He said that woman escaped, too.
IMPD said they are aware of the incidents and are investigating. They said these situations are concerning and that they are increasing bike patrols on the trail for the foreseeable future.
IMPD Ofc. Drew Brown said it's important for people to stay alert.
"It's easy to get distracted, especially if you're running the trail and you've got your music in. But just be mindful. Keep your eyes up and look around, as well," Brown said. "We ask you to just plan ahead and let a family or friend know if you're going to be somewhere. It never hurts to be in a group, if you have that opportunity as well."
Ralph Johnson and his dog, Ziggy, walk on the trail two or three times a week. He's happy to hear IMPD plans to increase patrols, especially for his wife, who also walks the trail.
"That puts you on guard. You want to be careful. That will make me be a little more conscious of it. It won't make me stay away, necessarily. Hopefully, we won't come up on any trouble on the trail," Johnson said.
Mark Irvin also walks the trail often. He said he's surprised by news of the attacks and that he chooses to walk when there are more people on the trail.
"Well, a little uneasy, but this time of day, it's broad daylight. I'm not a little guy. More or less, I feel pretty safe on this trail," Irvin said.
Johnson said he's planning to bring a little protection of his own, just in case.
"At home, there's a club I carry at home. I may have to bring the club over here," Irvin said.
IMPD encourages people to approach them on the trail if they see someone or something that makes them concerned.