JPD investigates two possibly connected assaults in Mendenhall Valley, encourages residents to ‘remain vigilant’

Police expected to have increased presence in Mendenhall Valley as they attempt to locate suspect

A Juneau Police Department vehicle is seen downtown on Saturday, May 2, 2026. (Jasz Garrett / Juneau Independent)

By Jasz Garrett

Juneau Independent

The Juneau Police Department is investigating two separate reports of assault involving an unknown male entering Mendenhall Valley residences and assaulting occupants on early Saturday morning, according to a press release.

“Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, ensure doors and windows are secured, and promptly report suspicious activity to law enforcement,” the press release states. “JPD remains committed to thoroughly investigating these incidents, pursuing all available leads, and working to ensure the safety and wellbeing of Juneau residents.”

JPD received the first report of an assault in the 9100 block of Cinema Drive at approximately 1:55 a.m. Saturday. 

A female caller reported an unknown male knocked on the door of the residence. When her boyfriend opened the door, the male immediately punched him in the face, causing him to lose consciousness. 

The caller also reported she was physically assaulted, rendered unconscious and sexually assaulted. When the victims regained consciousness, the suspect fled the area. The suspect was described as approximately 6 feet tall and possibly wearing a gray sweatshirt.

JPD received a second report of an assault at approximately 2:11 a.m. in the 3200 block of Tongass Boulevard. 

A male caller reported he was asleep when an unknown male entered his bedroom. The suspect was reportedly holding a small bag before punching the victim in the face. 

The suspect then fled the residence and was last seen walking toward Breese Street via Lori Avenue. The suspect in this incident was described as wearing a white sweatshirt and carrying a black shoulder bag.

JPD officers searched the area for the suspect, but he was not located. Investigators believe the cases may be connected, according to the press release.

As part of the ongoing investigation of both incidents, JPD officers and investigators may have an increased presence in the Mendenhall Valley area while following up on leads, conducting additional patrols and contacting potential witnesses. 

Community members may also see officers canvassing neighborhoods and reviewing surveillance footage as investigators work to identify the individual involved and determine whether any additional incidents may be connected.

JPD is asking anyone with information about the assaults to contact the Juneau Police Department at 907-586-0600. 

Residents in the areas surrounding Cinema Drive and Tongass Boulevard are also encouraged to review any home surveillance footage from Saturday’s early morning hours and report any suspicious activity or unknown individuals observed in the area. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through www.juneaucrimeline.com.

• Contact Jasz Garrett at jasz@juneauindependent.com or (907) 723-9356.