Masked man reportedly sexually assaults teen at gunpoint near Roswell nature trail

ROSWELL, Ga. - Roswell Police are investigating reports of a sexual assault on a popular walking trail.

Police say a 19-year-old woman told them she was walking on the Riverwalk Trail before 8 a.m. Tuesday  when a stranger came up behind her, said he had a gun, forced her into the woods, and sexually assaulted her.

"That is really scary that in the city of Roswell at 8 a.m., a young girl can't run on the trails here safely," said Luis Wenk-Wolff who was also walking the trail Tuesday afternoon.

Riverwalk Trail

"I hate to hear something like that," said Camilo Cruz who regularly runs on the trail. "It seems so safe. I lived here 20 years."

The woman told police the man was wearing dark clothing and a medical mask.

Police spent much of the afternoon interviewing a "person of interest," but no arrests have been made.

Police say they are proactively patrolling the area and remind everyone that it's always best to walk or run with a friend.

"I'll think twice about coming back without my husband or someone else or some sort of protection," said Jessica Thomas.

Police add that it's important to be aware of what's happening around you and limit personal distractions.

Police ask that if anyone saw anything suspicious on or near the trail between 7 and 8 a.m. Tuesday to give them a call at 770-640-4100. Anonymous information can be provided through Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or online.