BCSO Investigates Three Bosque Assaults Near Alameda, Suspect Still at Large

A man believed to be in his 30s has attacked at least three people in the cottonwood bosque on the west side of the Rio Grande north of Alameda since early February, and the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office said detectives are still working to identify and locate him.

BCSO announced the investigation in mid-March, outlining three incidents that occurred over five weeks: Feb. 2, March 1, and March 8. "Detectives believe these incidents may be related and are asking the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity," the agency said.

The first attack, on Feb. 2, was the most alarming in its detail. A suspect wearing all-black clothing, including a black face mask, black gloves, and black goggles, pointed what appeared to be a firearm at a victim, pushed that person to the ground, and cut their pants near the groin. The victim was not injured.

On March 1, the same stretch of bosque became the scene of a second assault when a suspect dressed entirely in black attacked a male victim with a box cutter. That victim sustained minor injuries.

The most recent incident came on March 8, when a woman riding her horse through the bosque was approached by a suspect holding a knife. He threatened to stab the horse. She managed to escape, and no injuries were reported. The suspect in that attack was described as wearing a black hoodie and blue pants, and appeared to be approximately 30 years old.

Investigators have not confirmed whether all three attacks were carried out by the same person, though they have stated the incidents appear related. No arrests have been made and no suspect has been publicly identified.

The string of attacks has rippled beyond the investigation itself. According to Rio Rancho Observer reporting, the incidents prompted additional police patrols in the area, led recreational groups to relocate their activities away from that section of the bosque, and caused local schools to issue safety reminders to students and parents.

BCSO is asking anyone with information to contact the agency through its non-emergency line, submit tips online, or send an anonymous text. Anyone who witnesses a threat or an assault in progress should call 911.