'No evidence' to link Eagan's Lebanon Hills Park assaults, investigation continues

Sexual assault reported at popular Eagan Park

Eagan police and the Dakota County Sheriff's Office has increased patrols and are urging caution after two sexual assaults took place at the popular Lebanon Hills Park in Eagan.

EAGAN, Minn. (FOX 9) - Eagan police are continuing their investigation into the two assaults that took place in the city's Lebanon Hills Park, saying the two attacks may not be related.

What's new?

Eagan police say there is currently "no evidence" that shows the two assaults that took place at Lebanon Hills Park are related, or that they were committed by the same person.

According to police, the first attack took place on Sept. 7, which was a "physical" assault against a woman by a single man. The second attack happened on Nov. 7, and was a "sexual" assault on a woman by a single man.

The first victim reported to police that she parked at the Jensen Lake Trailhead lot and walked the trails nearby. The second victim parked at the Lebanon Hills Visitor Center and walked the trails nearby.

Police say they are actively working on leads in the case, and continue to urge safety when at the park.

Background

The Eagan Police Department said a sexual assault happened in Lebanon Hills Regional Park on Thursday, Nov. 7, around 11 a.m.

The female victim was reportedly walking alone along the trail system when she was attacked, according to police.

Law enforcement officials say a similar incident was reported near the same location back on Sept. 7 around 4:30 p.m., but the victim in that attack was able to get away.

Both the Eagan Police Department and the Dakota County Sheriff's Office are increasing patrols in and around the park.

Anyone with information on either incident is asked to call the tip line at 651-675-5799 or email eaganpd@eaganmn.gov.