YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Mill Creek MetroParks Police are increasing their presence in the park after a woman reported being attacked Thursday night. Police have stepped up patrols near West Newport Drive in light of the report and this time of the year more officers are already on duty. 

The assault happened Thursday evening shortly before 8 p.m.

The victim, a woman in her early 50s, told police she was attacked and dragged into the woods on West Newport Drive.

According to a police report, the woman was injured in her head, neck and wrist and had some of her teeth knocked out in the attack. 

The reports states that the suspect is a man.

"It's really an ongoing investigation. The MetroParks police is looking into it, is investigating it," stated police chief Jim Willock. 

The alleged assault happened between the first parking lot off Sheban Drive and the Wetlands parking lot.

"It's very rare to have an incident like this in the park and I can't remember the last time we've had an incident like this," he said.

Police have now increased patrols in that area and typically this time of the year they have more officers on duty during a shift. There are officers on foot, bicycles, ATVs and in cruisers.

"Just be aware of your surroundings when you visit the park and keep in mind, secure your valuables, try to make sure your vehicles are secured and just be aware of what's going on around you and if you see something that looks out of place please contact us," advised Willock.

Mill Creek MetroParks Police issued a news release telling visitors they should expect to see a greater police presence in the park and are asking anyone who sees something suspicious to contact MetroParks police at 330-744-3848. 

Boardman police tell 21 News they do not believe this incident is related to another incident in March, where a woman was attacked in a parking lot on West Boulevard.