[Post removed.]

[Post removed.]

[Post removed.]

[Post removed.]

What a terrible tragedy.

[Portion removed.] This incident was in no way this girls fault. She should have the right and expectation to jog and enjoy our natural resources without the fear of assault.

However, there is always evil and suffering lurking in the world. No place is completely safe and predators often seek the areas that appear the most benign and are the least protected.

If joggers would like to attempt to defend themselves against that reality, below are a few suggestions:

1. Never run alone in isolated areas. Use the buddy system.
2. Do not run with earphones on and stay alert to your surroundings
3. Carry runners mace or a loud personal alarm system
4. Consider taking self defense classes specialized on breaking contact and getting away. Defeating an attacker who gets to choose the time and place of the assault is unlikely. Nevertheless, he may give up quickly if you create some distance, cause a loud commotion or are able to move into an open area.

Such a sad situation. Let's hope the authorities catch this monster quickly.

Dear Sanctimonious: good points, except spoiled by your opening statement. I consider myself liberal, and I do to blame this girl in any way.

Sorry: typed in haste: I do NOT blame this girl for this horrible assault.

Awful, sad, and very disturbing. This happened in the middle of the afternoon in broad daylight. I wouldn't think twice about going out alone at that hour of the day. Palo Alto is becoming more like a big city every day and I sadly think we can expect more such crime.

Thank you, Sanctimonious City, for your suggestions. Where might one buy a "loud personal alarm system"? That sounds like a good investment and a great gift.

You can get runners alarms on Amazon, at Fry's or REI. Amazingly loud, compact and cost effective.

They range in price between about $6 - $15 dollars. Below is a link to a review page with different kinds or just Google search "personal runner alarm".

Web Link

I started walking alone with my dog along the Arastradero path in the mid-1980’s. Even then, the section of the bike path between Deer Creek Rd and Purissima, while beautiful, also seemed slightly creepy to me because of its isolation. The bike path veers away from the road at that section, and I always imagined that it would be a good place for a predator to hide. I was always extra vigilant when walking that section, and was accompanied by a dog. But I am so saddened to hear that someone did take advantage of the isolation to attack a young, defenseless teen. I urge anyone walking in that area, or any other secluded area that offers places to hide, to really stay vigilant and prepared. I hope the police can catch this guy before he harms someone else!!

YMCA Silicon Valley offers free services for survivors of sexual assault Web Link

I hope they catch this monster ASAP!!