By Brian Marshall
Review Editor
The Orion Township Substation continues looking for a man who allegedly punched a 14-year-old girl on the Paint Creek Trail.
On July 8, Orion Township LT Daniel Toth stated, “I just checked with everyone and we have received no further tips. I still think he is local and will turn up.”
On the morning of July 2, deputies were sent to Markdale Avenue to check on a report of an alleged assault on the trail. A 14-year-old girl said she was punched in the arm by a man who accused the girl of causing him to fall off his bike.
The teen, whose identity is being withheld, told police that the bicycle rider came from behind her and yelled for her to move.
“He fell over and he got up. I said sorry several times, the girl said. He got up and yelled at me then punched me in the shoulder. I didn’t mean to get in his way.”
Deputies conducted a search of the trail and adjacent parking areas for the suspect with negative results. Extra patrols and additional bike patrols will continue on the Paint Creek Trail, according to Toth.
Witnesses describe the man as having an accent, possibly being Hispanic and in his 50’s. Also, he had gray hair and wore a yellow bandana. He was riding a red mountain bike.
Anyone with any information on the bicyclist is urged to call the Orion Township Substation of the Oakland County Sheriff at (248) 393-0090.