Police investigate two groping incidents at Silver Lake Reservoir

Los Angeles police are investigating two separate groping incidents at Silver Lake Reservoir after women were approached from behind and sexually assaulted while exercising, according to ABC7 Los Angeles.

The incidents, occurring weeks apart at the popular urban park, have unsettled the Silver Lake community and prompted LAPD to increase patrols and post warning signs around the reservoir.

The first assault occurred March 25 at 8:45 p.m., when a 25-year-old woman exercising near the reservoir was touched on the breasts from behind by an unknown man, who fled immediately after, ABC7 Los Angeles reported. A second woman, age 33, reported a similar attack on April 19 at 5 p.m. under nearly identical circumstances.

LAPD responded by posting warning signs around the reservoir perimeter and deploying additional officers on foot patrol through the park. Investigators are asking anyone with information about the suspect to come forward.

For nearby residents, the incidents have reshaped daily habits. "It's really disturbing," said Rianna Johnson Levy, a Silver Lake resident. She told ABC7 that she has since adjusted her routine, adding, "We've just sort of been sticking around to the other side of the reservoir where there's better streetlights."

Resident Andrew Lawson said the threat reaches beyond any single group. "As a man it's terrifying as well. It could impact anyone we know from friends to family to my niece. It impacts us all. It's not just a women's issue. It's a community issue," Lawson said.

Maya Berry, another area resident, recommended practical precautions. "I think it's always good to carry pepper spray, and no headphones, so you can hear what's going on around you," Berry said.

LAPD has not publicly released a description of the suspect. Anyone with information is urged to contact local police.