7 years later, warnings still out for rapist

FAIRMOUNT PARK - April 17, 2010 The Special Victims Unit thought they would use this opportunity to remind people that even though the Fairmount Park rapist has been out of sight for the last few years, he should definitely not be out of mind.

Offering warnings and passing out flyers SVU along with the Philadelphia Police Explorers were hoping to jog joggers' memories about the suspect.

It has been a few years, but police say DNA confirms the man is responsible for three rapes and one rape-murder.

But as time has elapsed the memory of his acts have faded for some.

"I feel like I know his face but haven't been in touch with this for awhile," said Fay Zelenko.

So officers intended to push his face and the crimes he committed back into joggers' memories.

The first three cases occurred in Fairmount Park from April to October in 2003.

He disappeared until 2007, when police say he struck again in Pennypack Park.

All of his victims were joggers so officers were telling runners to stay alert.

"Let them know to be aware of their surroundings not have headphones on every one was joggers, out jogging by themselves," explained Lt. Tom McDevitt.

Most recently the man is described as a Hispanic male, with a Latino accent, medium and muscular build, about 5'8", with a dark complexion, black hair, a thin mustache and jaw line beard with bushy eyebrows.

He was seen fleeing two scenes on a purple metallic 10-speed bike.

Police and joggers are both hoping the reminder will generate some new information.

"I think it's a good idea. I plan to put a flyer up in my neighborhood on my street," said Debbie Shore.

"With all the thousands of people who are out here every day jogging, running, on their bikes the world is too small for someone not to know who he is," said Zelenko.

There are several numbers you can call if you can provide any information. Click here for the list.

Copyright © 2024 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.