Sydney, Australia— A woman was assaulted and touched while jogging along the Bondi Beach trail Wednesday morning, triggering a police search and renewed warnings about safety on the coastal track.
NSW Police said the incident happened around 6:20 a.m. between Marks Park and the Bondi to Bronte walk. The victim, 27, was running northbound. A man approached from behind, grabbed her arm, and pulled her toward the rocks.
She broke free. She screamed. The man then touched her inappropriately before running south toward Tamarama, police said. The victim suffered minor bruising and shock. She ran to a nearby cafe and staff called triple zero.
Officers from Eastern Beaches Police Area Command arrived within ten minutes. They sealed a 200-meter stretch of the trail and spoke to early-morning walkers. Several runners reported seeing a man loitering near the stairs for over an hour before the attack.
Police described the suspect as Caucasian, in his late 20s to early 30s, about 180cm tall, wearing a dark hoodie and grey shorts. He had a distinctive limp on his left leg. Detectives are now reviewing CCTV from three beachfront kiosks.
Detective Inspector Rachel Dunn said the attack appeared opportunistic. She said the trail was busy even at dawn and appealed for anyone with phone footage to come forward. She said the victim showed courage.
The Bondi to Bronte walk records more than 15,000 users per day in summer. Local council said lighting on that section was upgraded last year, but gaps remain near the cliffs. Runners have complained about isolated spots with no cameras.
The victim was taken to Prince of Wales Hospital for assessment and has since been discharged. She gave a formal statement Wednesday afternoon. Police said she was supported by specialist officers.
NSW Police have increased patrols on the track during morning and evening hours. They urged joggers to run in pairs and keep phones accessible. The investigation is ongoing. Police have not made an arrest.
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