The Fredericksburg Police Department is investigating a string of sexual assaults along the Canal Path and Heritage Trail that occurred over the past week.
Aaccording to a Wednesday afternoon press release by Fredericksburg Public Information Officer Caitlyn McGhee, three separate incidents were reported between March 19th and March 25th, all involving a suspect grabbing female joggers by the buttocks.
📌 March 19th – Canal Path
“The first sexual battery occurred along the Canal Path on March 19, 2026. The suspect in this assault approached a female, grabbed her buttocks, and then fled on foot. The suspect in this case is described as a male, approximately 5’10”, between 25 and 35 years old, with a medium build.”
📌 March 23rd – Heritage Trail
“The suspect in this assault approached a female, grabbed her buttocks, and then fled on foot. The suspect in this case is described as a male, approximately 5’11”- 6’01”, with a medium build.”
📌 March 25th – Heritage Trail at 12:40 PM
“The suspect in this assault approached a female, grabbed her buttocks, and then fled on foot. The suspect in this case is described as a male, possibly Hispanic, approximately 5’07”, with short black hair.”
McGhee states that the department is also investigating an incident from October 19, 2025 involving a reported sexual assault that occurred at approximately 9:00 PM on the canal path in the area between Washington Avenue and Emancipation Highway near Cossey Pond.
The suspect in that incident is described as male, between 5’4″ – 5’55” tall with medium build and possibly Middle Eastern, Hispanic or Indian.
Anyone who witnessed the assaults, is in possession of footage from around the area is encouraged to contact the Fredericksburg Police Department.
“The Fredericksburg Police Department takes these incidents very seriously and will be increasing patrols along the canal path while remaining committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens,” the statement says.
The department reminds residents to stay vigilant while walking, remain in areas that are well lit, and to promptly report any suspicious activity.
Note: file photo
