Police increasing patrols on trail system after violent sexual assault in Whitby

Police will be increasing patrols in and around Iroquois Beach Park and the Waterfront Trail in Whitby after a woman was dragged off a walking path and sexually assaulted Monday evening.

Police responded to reports of a violent sexual assault at Iroquois Beach Park near Gordon Street and the Waterfront Trail at 10:15 p.m. Monday. Investigators learned the victim was leaving Iroquois Beach Park and walking along the sand path that runs north-west toward Gordon Street when she was assaulted by an unknown man.

Police were told the suspect dragged the victim off the path into a tree line where he made threats and sexually assaulted her. The woman was able to flee toward the street and flag down a motorist to contact police, before being taken to hospital by emergency medical personnel.

The suspect fled the area prior to police arrival. An extensive search was conducted by officers, with support from the DRPS K9 Unit and Drone Unit, but the suspect was not found.

The suspect is described as Black, with shoulder length corn row style hair. He was wearing all black clothing.

Anyone with cell phone, dashcam, surveillance footage or any information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Jiggins of the Special Victims Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5312.

The goal of the increased patrols in the area is to help ensure the safety of residents and others using the trail system.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at http://durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.

Waterfront Trail in Whitby. Photo Leah Jones