A Kingwood woman was attacked while walking the greenbelt trails during an attempted robbery, according to the Houston Police Department.
Last Thursday, the victim reported that the attack occurred in the greenbelt near Deerbrook Drive and Timberlake Drive. The assailant began walking towards the victim and pointed a gun at her, demanding money and later her cellphone.
According to the victim, after failing to take the items, he pushed her to the ground, causing severe bruising to her arm.
The attacker was described as a man in a hoodie. HPD is currently investigating the incident.
With the dangers associated with running alone, it is more important than ever that runners take precautions while exercising, especially in greenbelt trails and other areas with low visibility.
Here are some tips to stay safe, suggested by experts:
- 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.