Cyclists talk about trail safety after attempted rape on Cape LaCroix Bike Trail
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — A woman is recovering after a violent assault Tuesday evening, May 13, 2025, on the Cape LaCroix bike trail in Cape Girardeau. Police have arrested an 18-year-old suspect who is now facing felony charges.
Officers responded to a report of an assault near the 2100 block of Brink Avenue. The victim told police she had been attacked by a man while walking on the trail. According to investigators, the suspect tackled her to the ground and repeatedly demanded that she perform sexual acts.
The woman said she fought back, striking the suspect in the groin and refusing his demands. The man fled the scene. The victim sustained minor injuries.
Police located the suspect nearby and took him into custody. He was identified as Noa Wonnell, 18, and is facing charges of attempted rape and Class E felony assault. He is currently being held on a no-bond warrant.
FOX23’s Katie White visited the Cape LaCroix trail and spoke with cyclists and police about safety efforts on the trail.
The area where the assault occurred is one of the more secluded sections of the approximately five-mile path, according to cyclist David Larson.
“Once you get there by the armory and pickleball courts, that’s when it starts to get isolated,” Larson said. “It’s always a good idea to have a buddy with you.”
Cape Girardeau Police Department public information officer Bobby Newton emphasized the importance of staying alert while using the trail.
“If you see something that’s out of place or just doesn’t seem right — doesn’t feel right — make a mental note of that, but then also contact us if there’s something that worries you,” Newton said. “We can send officers out to investigate.”
Newton advised trail users to keep at least one earbud out when listening to music to stay aware of their surroundings.
Matt Clements, a regular trail user, echoed that sentiment.
“Running with music, walking with music, talking on the phone — I personally don’t do that,” he said, “I just feel safer. I can hear someone behind me. I can communicate with someone in front of me.”
Both cyclists said they enjoy using the trail and that’s what Newton said police want, as well — for people to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.
To improve safety and to give people more peace of mind, Newton said police will be patrolling the area more often as they get into the summer months.
“We are finally getting back up staff where we can have the availability to get officers out here more. So hopefully we’ll be able to patrol the trails a little more than we have in the past, but we try to do as much as possible,” he said.
