Full Breakdown
Assault on Westmoreland Heritage Trail Raises Safety Concerns
6/6/2026, 11:32:55 PM
Background & Context
The Westmoreland Heritage Trail, a 20-mile multi-use path linking several municipalities, is popular with walkers, cyclists and runners. Prior to the incident, it had no recent reports of violent crime.
Assault Details
On Tuesday afternoon, a 24-year-old woman walking her dog on the Westmoreland Heritage Trail in Murrysville, Pennsylvania, was approached by an unknown man who grabbed her pants, tried to strip her, and attempted to force her to the ground. The suspect, 30-year-old Colton Stennett of Jeannette, stole the victim’s phone and fled westward. Police pursued him, locating him in a wooded area near Meadowbrook Road and taking him into custody.
Official Statements
Murrysville Police Chief Tom Kusinsky called the attack an isolated incident, urged trail users to stay vigilant, and announced that officers will be trained to patrol the Heritage Trail by bicycle. He reiterated that the trail remains safe overall while emphasizing the need for personal awareness.
Community Reaction
Local residents voiced anxiety. Jason Sturm said he does not want to “prepare” his 11-year-old daughter or give her mace to use the trail. Amanda Moore, a regular runner, now sticks to the more traveled sections, noting she “used to run on the trail by myself all the time.” Witnesses reported hearing a male scream and seeing the suspect wrestle the woman to the ground.
Data & Charges
Stennett faces charges of attempted rape, forcible compulsion, robbery and theft of a phone. A bail hearing denied release, citing “threat to society.” A BOLO was issued during the multi-agency pursuit.
Why It Matters
The assault highlights vulnerabilities on open-air public spaces, prompting law-enforcement agencies to reconsider patrol strategies and prompting community calls for enhanced safety measures. The incident also raises broader concerns about gender-based violence in outdoor settings.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I HEARD SOMEBODY SCREAMING, A MALE SCREAMING LOUDLY.” — Jason Sturm, local resident
- “AT THAT POINT, SHE WAS ABLE TO FIGHT HIM OFF VERY BRAVELY.” — Tom Kusinsky, Murrysville Police Chief
- “I HAVE AN 11 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER THAT WE TELL TO COME DOWN HERE, AND I DON’T WANT TO HAVE TO, YOU KNOW, PREPARE HER OR GIVE HER MACE TO COME DOWN HERE.” — Jason Sturm, local resident
- “This is not a regular occurrence," he said.” — Tom Kusinsky, Murrysville Police Chief
- “I used to run on the trail by myself all the time.” — Amanda Moore, trail user
What’s Next
Murrysville officers will begin regular bicycle patrols on the Heritage Trail within weeks. Stennett remains in custody pending trial. Community groups plan safety workshops to teach trail users self-protection techniques.
