Authorities urge caution after sexual misconduct reported at Hinkson Creek Trail

The city of Columbia park ranger is investigating a sexual misconduct report about and incident Sunday morning on the Hinkson Creek Trail.

The female victim was running on the trail near Capen Bridge and Rock Quarry Road. She told authorities a Hispanic or black male riding a small, dark-colored bicycle kept passing her back and forth on the trail.

The male groped her from behind and kept riding his bicycle down the trail. The victim continued running and later saw the man masturbating near Hinkson Field on the trail.

“Be careful of your surroundings. Be aware of other people. Trying not to use recreational facilities at a low peak time — when you’re the only one out there.” said Detective Tom O’Sullivan with Boone County Sheriff’s Department.

The woman then contacted the University of Missouri Police Department. Officers were dispatched on bicycles, but were unable to locate the suspect.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic or black male, approximately 6 foot 1, weighing 160 pounds and was last seen wearing a baggy light colored T-shirt, ball cap, and a back pack.