

"This happened in our city, this happened in our community to one of our citizens," Asst. Chief Roddy said, "We want all community members to raise their awareness, adhere to some of the safety protocols we've asked them to adhere to."



Runners getting their workout in Tuesday afternoon were shocked to hear the sexual assault happened just down the street.



"I have a lot of friends who run in the early morning hours when it's dark outside," said Jennifer Hampton of Chattanooga, "And i'll be more concerned for their safety after this."



"As long as I'm on the river front I've never had any fear," said Scott Fisher of Rock Springs, "Hearing about what you told me, I can't believe it hardly."



Chattanooga Police emailed a news release calling the attack an assault and giving people safety tips to use while running.



Some of the tips from police say people should never run alone, do not use headphones and run with a cell phone at all times.



Runners we spoke with admit they rarely ever carry items with them during a run, and will run alone if they have to.



One runner said knowing it was a sexual assault rather than the vague term "assault" gives her more reason to follow the safety tips provided.



"Yes, absolutely, I might consider having something on me to protect myself," Hampton said, "Assault is more general and you're not sure, how severe was the assault, you're not really sure of the details but rape definitely is severe."