ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Authorities in Alexandria have taken a significant step in addressing public safety concerns following the attempted abduction of two women near Metro stations. A suspect, identified as 35-year-old Jeffrey Gary, is now in custody after allegedly targeting women on Friday evening.
Incident Overview
The first reported incident occurred around 8 p.m. at the Potomac Yard Metro station. In this case, Gary allegedly approached a woman accompanied by a 4-year-old child and proceeded to assault her.
Police Response
Police Chief Tarrick McGuire condemned the attacks, describing them as “the act of a coward” and emphasizing that it was a targeted strike intended to harm a woman.
Second Incident
Shortly after the first incident, a second attempted abduction was captured on public safety cameras at the Braddock Metro Station around 9:40 p.m. The footage shows Gary approaching another woman, who was fortunately able to escape and alert authorities.
Details of the Attacks
Chief McGuire disclosed that in one instance, “the suspect grabbed her, placed his hand over her mouth and attempted to restrict her movement, wrestling her down to the ground.” Remarkably, no weapon was involved in these incidents.
Arrest and Charges
Gary was apprehended early Sunday morning thanks to a combination of public safety camera footage and the swift actions of Metro police. He is currently facing multiple charges, including assault, battery, and abduction.
Call for Additional Victims
In light of the circumstances, Alexandria Police are urging anyone who may have encountered Gary to come forward. Officers believe that there could be more victims who have not yet reported their experiences.
Chief McGuire expressed gratitude for the bravery displayed by the victims, stating, “I really believe, based off the facts and the information that we have, is that he was targeting females while riding the Metro. Just thinking about the women that were involved in the incident. The courage for them, number one to break away free from the individual and secondly to call us.”
