WCAC

Authorities Friday released a sketch of a man suspected in an assault on the footbridge near Shaw’s on the night of Sunday, July 30.

Waltham Police, which is investigating the incident with State Police, suspect that the assailant is a Hispanic male, in his late 20s or his 30s and approximately 5’7” tall. 

“He was wearing a baseball cap at the time of the assault,” said a press release.

Anyone with information is urged to call Massachusetts State Police Troop H Detectives  at 617-740-7544, Waltham Police at 781-314-3600 or 911.

Waltham Police said the assault took place around 8:45 p.m in the area of Newton and Farwell Streets.

 

News reports said a woman in her twenties was on the footbridge near the Shaw’s supermarket.

“The female victim, a young adult, heard footsteps behind her and then was grabbed from behind by the suspect, who tried to put his hand over her mouth,” said the release.

The woman screamed and freed herself, leading her assailant to flee. A search was conducted by units from the WPD and MSP, but he was not located.

Looking ahead, authorities warn those using the Riverwalk to be wary of their surroundings. 

“People should carry a cell phone, don’t wear headphones and may also consider carrying pepper spray.”

“If you are assaulted, if at all possible scream, make noise and fight back,” the release said.

 

Last week’s incident isn’t the first reported assault along the Riverwalk. In October 2022, Waltham Police notified the public about two other assaults along the popular walking path.

The suspect in those attacks was described as possibly white or hispanic, average height and build, in his 20s or 30s and wearing an orange hoodie.

Police increased patrols along the Riverwalk in response to the earlier assaults.

Sketch created with assistance from Lincoln Police