Two Milwaukee residents were robbed of valuables by an unknown male on the Oak Leaf trail in Estabrook Park around 5:30 PM on Monday 3/28. This occurred on the concrete foot bridge which is between the Milwaukee River and Estabrook Parkway on the 4000 block.
As the two were crossing the bridge, they were approached from behind by a man, unknown race, wearing black hooded sweatshirt and dark pants. The man held what was described as a "hard object" against the back of one of the victim's heads and demanded their property. After obtaining property, the man told the victims to keep walking and not turn around. This incident was reported to the police approximately 20-minutes after occurring.
Although incidents like this occurring on the Oak Leaf Trail are rare, they can happen. We always stress taking personal safety precautions when taking a walk or a jog.
1) Always be aware of your surroundings and know where you are. One of the delays in getting this call reported was that the victims didn't know where they were.
2) Trust your instincts. If you come across a person or persons who make you feel uneasy, turn around and go the other way. Always stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings.
3) Tell others where you are going and when you expect to return. Try not to go alone if you have an option.
4) Leave the headphones at home and stay off of your cell phones when out for a walk. You don't need to listen to music or be on Facebook when you're out enjoying nature or getting some exercise.
5) If you are confronted by someone who demands your property, give it to them. Nothing is worth your personal safety. Try to remember as many details as you can about the suspect(s).
As always, never fall into a false sense of security telling yourself that "nothing bad ever happens here." Anything can happen anywhere. Don't take chances. Implement a strategy and engage it with discipline. Be smart and be safe.
