Kilgore man charged with attempted kidnapping in hiking trail attack

LONGVIEW, Texas (KLTV) – An East Texas man is behind bars this morning after attempting to kidnap a woman on a hiking trail in Longview.

According to Longview Police, on August 16, 2024, at approximately 5:33 p.m., authorities were contacted by a female victim regarding an assault on Paul Boorman Trail.

The victim stated that a black man approached her, grabbed her from behind and tried to cover her mouth. However, she was able to free herself and escape.

The suspect's description was similar to another encounter that occurred shortly afterward. Officers searched the area for the suspect, passersby found a person matching the description, and police arrested the man.

He was determined to be the suspect and is in custody for attempted kidnapping and Gregg County warrants. The suspect was identified as 27-year-old Jelan DAaron Armond Williams of Kilgore.

Longview Police will increase patrols on the city's trail system.

If you have any additional information regarding this incident or any other suspicious activity on the trails, please contact Longview Police at 903-237-1110. You may also contact Gregg County Crime Stoppers at 903-236-STOP (7867) or provide information online at greggcountycrimestoppers.org.

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