Safety advice circulated after reported Antioch greenway attack as police continue searching for a suspect

Police investigate reported attack on Mill Creek Greenway

Metro Nashville Police are searching for a man accused of attacking a woman walking on the Mill Creek Greenway in Antioch Park on Friday morning, Jan. 17, 2026. Police said the woman was on the trail around 9:15 a.m. when a man approached from behind.

Investigators said the woman fought the attacker off, ran to a parking area and called 911 from her car. Police described her injuries as minor and said she did not require medical attention. Authorities have asked anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.

Why this location has drawn heightened attention

The reported Jan. 17 attack occurred on the same greenway corridor where Alyssa Lokits, 34, was fatally shot in October 2024. Police said Lokits was exercising on the Mill Creek Greenway off Old Hickory Boulevard when witnesses reported hearing her yell for help before shots were fired.

In that 2024 case, police announced an arrest less than 24 hours after the shooting, identifying Paul S. Park, 29, of Brentwood, as the suspect. Investigators said the evidence they developed included witness statements and vehicle-related information, as well as dashcam footage that recorded images used to help identify the suspect.

Self-defense advocate shares safety guidance amid renewed concerns

In the wake of the latest reported incident, safety guidance circulated from a self-defense advocate focused on practical steps trail users can take while walking or running. The advice emphasized situational awareness, choosing times and routes with other trail users present, and taking steps to increase the likelihood of quick assistance if a confrontation occurs.

While police have not publicly detailed a suspect description in the Jan. 17 case beyond the circumstances of the approach from behind, the reported sequence of events underscores common elements law enforcement frequently highlights in safety messaging: early recognition of abnormal behavior, creating distance, and moving quickly toward other people or well-traveled areas when possible.

Community response and ongoing prevention efforts

The Antioch-area greenway system has also become the focus of broader community conversations about public safety and trail infrastructure. Following the 2024 killing of Lokits, her family and supporters launched efforts aimed at improving outdoor safety for women and encouraging continued use of public greenways. Organizers have described initiatives ranging from education to working with parks officials on evaluating safety measures.

What to know now

• Incident: Reported attack on Mill Creek Greenway at Antioch Park on Jan. 17, 2026, around 9:15 a.m.
• Victim status: Minor injuries; police said no medical treatment was needed.
• Investigation: Police are seeking information and tips through Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.

If you have information about the Jan. 17 incident, police are asking for tips through Crime Stoppers. Callers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

The investigation remained active as of the most recent police update, with no announced arrest in the Jan. 17 case.