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Police Search For Suspects After 2 Women Attacked On Trails

CARBONDALE, Colo. (CBS4) - Authorities say someone is preying on women in the Colorado high country town of Carbondale.

There have been two attacks. Both assaults were in the small, quiet town located between Glenwood Springs and Aspen. Police say they are looking for two men.

Both attacks happened as woman were walking alone late at night on Carbondale trails. The most recent one happened a few nights ago on a bike path in the middle of town just feet away from the main road through town.

CARBONDALE SEX ASSAULTS map

"She was approached from behind …. she was wearing her music in her ears so she didn't hear him coming. She was pulled down to the ground and touched inappropriately and assaulted," Chris Wurtsmith with the Carbondale Police Department said. "It's very alarming, it's very personal. In her case she fought back, which I applaud."

CARBONDALE SEX ASSAULTS 5PKG.tra6nsfer
Chris Wurtsmith with the Carbondale Police Department is interviewed by CBS4's Matt Kroschel (credit: CBS)

For residents in the tight-knit community the attacks come as a surprise.

"My reaction is to connect with other females in the community to be there for each other, share the information, and make sure everyone knows to be careful," Carbondale resident Alyssa Reindel said.

CARBONDALE SEX ASSAULT Chris Wurtsmith with the Carbondale Police Department
A trail where an assualt occurred in Carbondale (credit: CBS)

The latest attacker is described as a Hispanic man about 5-foot-5. Police don't have any leads as to who is preying on women but they want people to protect themselves.

"For all the young ladies out there we are encouraging them to walk with a friend. Late at night stay in well-lit areas. Think about things like pepper spray, perhaps even a personal Taser, but by all means fight back," Wurtsmith said.

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