Franklin police are asking for the public's help as they search for a man who allegedly tried to sexually assault a 41-year-old on the Oak Leaf Trail late Thursday night. According to authorities, the attack happened on June 11 between 9:00 and 9:15 p.m. on the stretch of trail between West Drexel Avenue and West Puetz Road. The victim, a 41-year-old Franklin resident, was able to break away and report the incident. Police say the suspect ran north along the trail toward West Drexel after the assault attempt.
A press release shared with FOX6 News Milwaukee describes the suspect as a tan-skinned male, about 5-foot-10 and 150 to 180 pounds, with a muscular build. He was reportedly dressed in all black, wearing a face mask, and spoke with a deep voice. He was last seen running north toward West Drexel Avenue. Police say the investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made.
The Franklin Police Department is asking anyone who may have been in the area to check trail cameras, doorbell cameras, security systems or dash cams for anything unusual around the time of the incident. Tips and footage can be directed to Detective Sergeant Mark Goers at 414-425-2522. That number is listed as the department's non-emergency line, and the department notes it operates 24/7. For emergencies, callers should dial 911.
Where It Happened
The Oak Leaf Trail is a county-wide multi-use trail system that stretches more than 135 miles through Milwaukee County, including a southern segment that runs through Franklin near Drexel and Puetz. Milwaukee County Parks describes the Oak Leaf as a key connector between parks and neighborhoods and notes that portions of the trail have been modernized in recent years.
How You Can Help
Investigators are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who was on or near the Oak Leaf Trail between 9:00 and 9:15 p.m. on June 11. Police are urging people to review any photos, videos or audio recorded around that time, even if clips seem brief or insignificant, and to contact the Franklin Police Department with potential leads. Detectives are canvassing the area and working to identify additional witnesses.
The investigation remains active. Anyone with information is asked to call 414-425-2522. This story will be updated as officials release more details.
