Runners react to MKT trail attack

Just hours after a woman was attacked on the MKT trail, the area was reopened for runners and bikers. University of Missouri graduate student Sarah Borowski was on the trail with her dog and family Friday afternoon.

“There are always people running and jogging. I mean I was surprised to hear something happened by this entrance. That’s definitely not one of the areas I feel unsafe.”

The attack happened near the Forum Boulevard access. According to police, the 26 year-old woman was hit several times with an object. The male suspect got away from the scene and a witness called 911.

The Columbia Parks & Recreation Departmen is responsible for monitoring more than 20 miles of trails around town. They say they do have park rangers on patrol.

“Well, I’m surprised,” Columbia resident Richard Hillman said. “I’m obviously worried, but it probably won’t change my walking habits.” Hillman says he’s lived in Columbia for 30 years and walks the trails almost every day. He said he rarely sees things that look out of place or suspicious.

Borowski said she feels safe on the trails but carries pepper spray with her. She recognizes some parts of the MKT are more isolated than others.

According to the Columbia Police Officer’s Association, until three years ago officers were give “trail time” up to six hours per month. Cedit given to officers in return for them running the trail, in uniform or in police gear.

The association says ChiefBurton terminated the program and Columbia Police Department stopped working the trail and has not patrolled it since then.