ROLLA, Mo. — The U.S. Forest Service and Iron County law enforcement officers are jointly investigating an assault that took place on the Ozark Trail in the Bell Mountain Wilderness Area.
On the afternoon of March 23 a female hiker was assaulted by an unknown male while solo hiking near the intersection with the Bell Mountain Connector Trail.
The victim managed to fight off her attacker and flee the area.
The suspect has been described as a white male, late 30s to early 40s, tall and slim, last seen wearing a black stocking hat, sunglasses, a dark coat and pants and carrying a daypack.
Anyone with information is requested to contact Special Agent Chuck Lochart at: charles.lochart@usda.gov. In case of emergency, dial 911 or the Iron County Sheriff’s Office at 573-546-7051.