Police in Columbia, Missouri, are warning of a “suspected prowler” who appears to be targeting women.
The Columbia Police Department provided a list of incidents since August 9, all but one south of downtown. In that incident, the suspect entered a woman’s apartment but became frightened and left.
(10) The suspect has been reported to have light facial hair or a shaved face. The suspect’s hair has been described as balding, although he has also been known to wear a hat. A victim who saw the suspect met with a professional sketch artist and helped create a rendering. pic.twitter.com/hEIUGlHJOM
— ColumbiaPD (@ColumbiaPD) November 8, 2022
He reportedly tried to enter several other apartments in the same complex, all women living alone.
Police received a similar report on September 15, and another on November 2 in the same apartment complex. Again, all the residents involved were women.
Two reports on November 6 included an attempted break-in at an apartment where only women were present and a woman who reported a man chased her to her door.
Police said all the victims were between 20 and 30 years old. A victim who saw the man helped a police artist develop a sketch. He is said to be 5 feet 9 inches to 6 feet tall with a slim, athletic build. He is also said to be balding but frequently wears a cap.
The department said it has “reason to believe” the incidents are all related and is withholding some evidence “out of respect to the victims.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Columbia Police Department at 573.874.7414. To report a tip anonymously, call CrimeStoppers at 573.875.8477.
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[Featured image: Sketch of suspect/Columbia Police Department]
