EBS STAFF
The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Forest Service is asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect of an assault that occurred in the Hyalite Canyon day-use area. According to the report, on Monday, Sept. 1, at approximately 10:30 p.m., a male suspect “approached a female from behind under the cover of darkness” near the restrooms in the day-use area by the dam at Hyalite Reservoir.
The suspect, described as a middle-aged Caucasian male with curly or wavy auburn-colored hair and a slender build, fled the scene after the victim deployed pepper spray in self defense. Despite extensive search efforts, including the use of drones and K9 units, the suspect was not located.
The sheriff’s office received a tip regarding a male matching the suspect’s description who was seen in the area, reportedly driving a late-model Dodge pickup with faded blue or green paint and a rusted-out box, accompanied by a dog, possibly a pointer, wearing a red collar. Investigators are working to determine whether this individual may be connected to the incident.
“The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office urges community members to remain vigilant while recreating in the area and to report anything matching the descriptions provided,” stated a Sept. 4 press release from the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office. “Travel in groups when possible and remain aware of your surroundings.”
Anyone with information about the incident, the vehicle or the individual described is urged to contact the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office Detective Division at 406-582-2121 and leave a message, or if the information is more urgent, call dispatch at 406-582-2100. Email tips can also be sent to Detective Sandy Schroeder at sandy.schroeder@gallatin.mt.gov.
