Woman assaulted on Cape LaCroix Trail on Sunday

Update

The suspect in this case shot himself after a police chase Tuesday. Go to http://www.semissourian.com/story/1822932.html for the latest developments.

Original story

Cape Girardeau police are asking people using Cape LaCroix Recreational Trail in Cape Girardeau to use caution after a woman was assaulted Sunday afternoon.

Police spokesman Darin Hickey said a 49-year-old woman was pushed into the woods at gunpoint near the Osage Centre around 4:30 p.m. Sunday by a man who parked near her car in a lot at Lexington Avenue and followed her a short distance.

The woman began screaming for help after the man walked up behind her and pulled out a silver handgun and threatened her, Hickey said. Another woman walking on the trail heard the commotion and began to enter the woods, at which time the man ran toward Mount Auburn Road, Hickey said. No one was injured.

Police are still searching for the suspect, who is described as six feet tall, weighing 215 pounds and wearing bluejeans and a green jacket. The suspect's age is unknown. The suspect's vehicle is described as a black Mazda pickup truck with Illinois plate number 340 98X.

Police are asking that anyone who sees the vehicle contact the police department immediately at 335-6621. Police are also seeking the woman who helped the victim to see if she can provide more information about the incident. Hickey said she helped the victim return safely to her vehicle and left before officers arrived.

Pertinent address:

1625 North Kingshighway, Cape Girardeau, MO