A 32-year-old woman was out for a morning run in her Houston Heights neighborhood Monday when a man in a white van approached her from behind and grabbed her shirt.
She says the man was attempting to pull her closer to him, but she was able to get away.
The incident happened in broad daylight, around 9:15 a.m. on Monday. The woman immediately filed a report with the Houston Police Department.
“It’s sad, because normally I don’t really hear about a lot of things happening on that side of town and in broad daylight,” said Dalia Harris who was out for a walk.
Attacks by strangers are statistically uncommon, but they’re not unheard of - which is why this incident has runners on alert.
“Most of the time, I come out during daylight hours or super early evening, and I’ll have someone with me if I need too,” said runner Maggie McQuiggan.
Mike Merlino founded in Flight Running club he said runners need to stay vigilante at all times.
He told KPRC 2 runners should join a group and take a self-defense class.
“We actually teamed up with Level 6 Krav Maga and custom designed a class for women runners, we get guys in there too to teach them skills on how to basically get away from an attacker and to fight back if they have too,” Merlino said.
To stay safe experts also suggest runners:
- Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings and what is going on nearby.
- Trust your intuition: If something doesn’t feel right, you may be in danger. Avoid a person or area if it feels unsafe.
- Plan your routes with safety in mind: Run in familiar areas that allow you to safely alter your route as needed.
- Run with a club/crew: Running with a group increases your safety. If you are traveling, find a club to run with. Check with local hotels about safe running routes.
- Be visible in the dark: Wear reflective clothing or a lighted vest when running in the dark. Be thoughtful about running in unlit areas with poor visiblity. Don’t run in the middle of the road when it’s dark
- Carry your cell phone: The best safety tool you own. Text a friend or family member so they know you are out on your run. Find apps that can safely track your run. Use your wearable technology to keep you safe.
- Carry ID: Slip it in your cell phone case or consider a Road ID that has pertinent medical information.
- Be smart about headphone use : We get it, you love your music. Keep the volume low enough that you can maintain awareness of your surroundings. Don’t zone-out in unpopulated areas - especially on quiet trails.