Massachusetts State Police warn those planning to visit Massachusetts Riverwalk after rape, indecent assault

The Massachusetts State Police are investigating two reported incidents, a rape that occurred in September and an indecent assault that occurred last Thursday, on the Riverwalk in Waltham.

Whether the two assaults were committed by the same assailant remains part of the ongoing investigation.

On the night of Sept. 14, 2022, a juvenile female reported that as she was walking alone near the Elm Street entrance to the Riverwalk, she was grabbed from behind, pushed against a tree, and raped and indecently assaulted. The girl stated she did not turn around to look at her assailant. The victim reported that the assault ended when the assailant thought he heard someone approaching and left.

The assailant did not say anything, and the victim said she heard what sounded like the assailant get on a bicycle and ride away after the assault.

On the evening of Oct. 20, 2022, a 37-year-old woman reported that she was running on the Riverwalk bike path near Prospect Street and Crescent Street when she was approached from behind by a man who touched her inappropriately two separate times. The assailant was riding a bicycle and did not say anything during the assaults. The woman ran off without confronting the assailant.

The victim described the man as either white or Hispanic of average height and build, possibly in his 20s or 30s, who was wearing an orange hoodie.

Investigations into both incidents are ongoing. 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.

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

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