A Saturday morning run along the South Side lakefront turned violent when a 44-year-old woman was sexually assaulted while jogging at Rainbow Beach Park, according to Chicago police. Investigators say the attacker grabbed her from behind, threw her to the ground, sexually assaulted her, and took her cellphone before running off. Police report they have only a vague description of the suspect and have opened an active investigation.
What the police say about the attack
Chicago police told CBS Chicago the assault happened shortly after 6 a.m. in the 3100 block of East 79th Street and that the victim was a 44-year-old woman. Detectives are asking anyone with information to contact Area 2 at 312-747-8271 or to submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com, using reference RD #JK293065.
Park context and recent policing
Rainbow Beach is a lakefront park on the South Side, and the Chicago Park District lists the site and its facilities near East 79th Street. The beach has already been on law enforcement’s radar this season, after authorities temporarily restricted access ahead of a planned “teen takeover,” a move reported when police turned the beach into a no-go zone in late May.
Past incidents and community concerns
The lakefront has drawn scrutiny before. In 2023, police and activists circulated a sketch after a 4-year-old was sexually assaulted in Rainbow Beach restrooms, prompting calls for cameras and other safety measures, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. That case helped fuel community demands for better lighting and surveillance around some beach facilities.
Police plea and how to help
Authorities say they still have only a vague description of the attacker and are urging anyone with information, photos or video from the area to come forward. CBS Chicago reports that police are again asking the public to call Area 2 detectives at 312-747-8271 or submit an anonymous tip at CPDTIP.com using reference RD #JK293065. Police say the investigation is ongoing.
Safety for runners
Runners and other lakefront users are encouraged to consider going out with a partner, varying routes and times, and keeping a charged phone on hand. If you witness suspicious behavior or are the victim of an assault, call 911 immediately and preserve any video or photos for investigators.
