Wagoner Police Search For Rapist, Community On Edge

Tara Vreeland, News On 6

WAGONER, Oklahoma -- Three women were attacked just this month. But police say they haven't connected all three assaults and are looking for help.

The latest attack happened Sunday night. The two women attacked previously were much older, and both had left their doors unlocked when a man entered.

Connected or not, Wagoner police want everyone to be on the lookout.

Neighbors in Wagoner say the recent rapes and sexual assaults have shaken the community.

"It rattled us enough that we kept our porch lights on for the very first time since I think in my entire life," said Wagoner resident Pastor Rick Boyne,

Boyne says he's on alert as a husband, as a father, and as a pastor. Clay Barnhart feels the same.

"No kind of history of stuff like that and It's kind of weird that it happened here in Wagoner," Barnhart said.

The first attack happened August 2, 2011. A 71-year-old woman was held at knife point, sexually assaulted and robbed.

The second victim, a 63-year-old woman, was robbed and raped on August 17, 2011.

8/23/2011 Related Story: Wagoner Police Search For Man Accused Of Raping Two Women

The latest victim, a woman in her 20s, was raped outside her home in the daylight hours Sunday. But police haven't quite linked all three attacks.

"Different age group. Different time frame. Different approach. Different contact," said Wagoner Police Chief Bob Haley.

Police have released a sketch of a suspect in the second attack. He's described as a white male in his 20s or early 30s. Light brown hair, cut short. He's between 5'4" to 5'8" with a thin build. He also covered his face.

Until police say they have a suspect in custody, people need to stay vigilant.

"It's very important that they pay attention. Lock your doors! That's a bit thing that helps," Chief Haley said.

Barnhart has taken it a step further.

"We've got our guns loaded and by the door," he said.

"It's just so unfortunate that this is going on. It's not right in a small town. I don't think in a small town it will last long. Someone is going to see him and turn him in and there is no way he'll get away with it," Pastor Boyne said.

If you know anything that can help the Wagoner police call the station at 918-485-5511.