A woman exercising along a Houston-area trail escaped an alleged sexual assault and attempted drowning after fighting back against her attacker, leading investigators to arrest a 19-year-old suspect, Texas authorities said.

The attack happened around 6:30 p.m. Monday near White Oak Bayou, according to the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office, Fox News reported. Investigators said the woman told deputies she was assaulted before the suspect allegedly tried to force her underwater. She managed to resist, scratching at his face and pulling out clumps of his hair before breaking free and running for help. She was later treated at a hospital for injuries.Link:

Constable Alan Rosen praised the victim’s determination, calling her actions an extraordinary example of survival, according to The Houston Chronicle. Authorities credited her ability to escape with providing investigators an opportunity to quickly begin searching for the suspect.

Deputies deployed a drone over the bayou and discovered signs of a struggle along the muddy bank, including disturbed ground and evidence consistent with a violent confrontation, People reported. Investigators also located fresh bicycle tire tracks leading away from the area and used nearby home surveillance footage to identify a cyclist matching the suspect’s description.

While canvassing the neighborhood, investigators learned the same man allegedly approached another woman outside her home but left after noticing her husband nearby. That information helped detectives narrow their search before locating the suspect a short time later.

Authorities identified the suspect as 19-year-old Jacoby Isiah Fuselier. Officials said he was taken into custody following a brief chase and struggle. Investigators also alleged he was carrying the victim’s cellphone when he was arrested.

Fuselier was initially charged with evading arrest before prosecutors added two counts of aggravated sexual assault. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not announced whether additional charges could be filed.

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