Jason Pohl

jasonpohl@coloradoan.com

Fort Collins authorities are investigating two Friday night attacks on women and believe they might be connected to a string of assaults reported in recent weeks.

Police on Friday responded to the 3000 block of West Elizabeth Street on a report of a woman who had been jogging when she was physically assaulted by a man about 10:30 p.m. Then, 20 minutes later, police were called to the area of City Park Avenue and Baystone Drive — less than 2 miles away — on a report of a woman out for a walk who was also attacked.

In both incidents, the women were alone when they were approached. Neither sustained serious injuries, though Officer Matthew Johnson would not elaborate further about the injuries. He did reiterate they were physical — not sexual — assaults.

The suspect description in both of the Friday night attacks was similar to the description from a series of assaults targeting women in recent months in the area.

He is described as a Hispanic male 30 to 35 years old with a medium to heavy build and is approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall with short hair. He might be driving a white older-model, four-dour SUV. Anyone who has contact with or witnesses the suspect come in contact with someone else is asked to call 911 immediately. Residents are also encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings, stay in groups and carry a cellphone as a precaution.

Authorities earlier in October announced an assailant was targeting women near the Colorado State University campus between Shields Street and Taft Hill Road, south of Prospect and north of Drake roads. Four of the incidents happened in the waning days of September and the first week of October. A fifth happened earlier in September, and a sixth was reported by a woman riding her bike north of the city on Colorado Highway 1 in unincorporated Larimer County, officials said.

An incident of suspicious behavior was reported on CSU's campus in September. Despite some reports, CSU police clarified the suspect in that case does not appear to be the same man connected to the five in the city and one just outside of Fort Collins limits.

CSUPD continues to work with Fort Collins and Larimer County investigators due to the proximity of the confirmed assaults to the main campus.

Anyone with any knowledge of these incidents or who may have information regarding a suspect is encouraged to call Detective Mike Knudsen at (970) 221-6558 or Crime Stoppers of Larimer County at (970) 221-6868. Crime Stoppers may also be reached through its website at www.stopcriminals.org.

Reporter Jason Pohl covers breaking news for the Coloradoan. Follow him on Twitter: @pohl_jason.