Be on the lookout for suspicious man near Biltmore Park, police warn

[Guest Nicole]

WLOS — ASHEVILLE, N.C. -- Residents in one local neighborhood are on high alert after several reports of asuspicious man approaching women.

It's happening on a popular trail system in Biltmore Park.

According to the Asheville Police Department, they've received several reports of a man approaching women on the trails and asking them to follow him. He claims to be a Jehovah's Witness.

APD said he's raising suspicions in the neighborhood.

"Jehovah's (Witnesses) typically have a certain dress, and he's been wearing a short-sleeved shirt and shorts," Asheville Police spokeswoman Christina Hallingse said. "Then they find it strange that he's not going door-to-door but approaching people on a walking trail."

Hallingse said he's been reported on the trails between Pinchot, Columbine, Heatherbrook and Schenk Parkway.

Biltmore Park resident Katie Burris lives directly next to the trail and said she's seen the man twice since Sunday.

"He was walking very slowly by himself," Burris said. She also noted that he "just didn't seem like he had a purpose."

Burris exited the trail before the man could speak to her. She said she also saw him again on Monday near the neighborhood.

Hallingse said the APD is "really worried about the walking trail around TC Roberson, because some cross country members have been approached by this gentleman."

The man is described is six feet tall, 170-180 pounds and in his early 30s. Witnesses say he has very light eyes.

The Asheville Police Department emphasizes that the man hasn't committed a crime, but that they would like to speak to him.

They also say that if you see the man, you should notify police and note what he's wearing and the direction he's heading. They plan to step up patrols in Biltmore Park especially the areas in which witnesses have reported seeing him.

APD also encourages people to walk with a friend if they plan to be on the trails around Biltmore Park.

 

Source: http://wlos.com/news/local/be-on-the-lookout-for-suspicious-man-near-biltmore-park-police-warn