ROCKY RIVER, Ohio — Metroparks police are investigating a brutal assault in the Rocky River Reservation that left a local runner hospitalized and shaken. The scenic park, popular among residents for outdoor activities, turned into the scene of a terrifying encounter for Vani Shukla, who has frequented the area during her marathon training.
Shukla, an avid runner preparing for her first marathon this October, usually enjoys her runs at the Rocky River Reservation, often doing laps with various running groups. With its picturesque trails, the park had become a cherished refuge for her. However, her sense of safety crumbled during what was intended to be a routine training session on Saturday evening.
As daylight faded, Shukla was nearing the end of her longest run yet—20 miles—when the unexpected happened. Just after mile 17, she experienced a violent attack that left her traumatized. “I’ve always taken precautions, like sharing my location and letting a friend know where I was,” Shukla recounted. But nothing could prepare her for the horror that unfolded.
According to her account, a man approached from behind, seized her by the shoulders, and attempted to choke her. In the split second that followed, she described feeling utterly helpless. “I was so scared that I couldn’t even scream or reach for my phone,” she said, fighting back tears. The struggle turned into a nightmare as she eventually blacked out.
When Shukla regained consciousness, she found herself on the ground with injuries. “I could feel the blood, and no one was around,” she recalled. Realizing she needed help, she staggered toward the main road, desperate to reconnect with her friend who was waiting for her nearby.
Suffering from a broken nose and multiple cuts, Shukla was rushed to the hospital for treatment. Despite the physical pain, she expressed relief to be alive. “I never thought something like this could happen in a place I considered safe—where I’d often see families enjoying the trails just minutes before my attack,” she said, still shaken by the experience.
Metroparks officials confirmed that they are actively investigating the incident and have increased patrols in the area. In a statement, they expressed their commitment to ensuring the safety of park visitors, offering condolences to Shukla. “Our thoughts go out to the victim, and we are committed to bringing the person or persons responsible to justice,” the statement read.
Though the emotional scars may take time to heal, Shukla is determined not to let fear dictate her love for running. “I will go back to that same park, but not alone, at least not for a while,” she stated firmly. To fellow runners, she offers a poignant reminder: Stay vigilant while enjoying your favorite paths.
This case remains a top priority for the Metroparks police, who have yet to release any information regarding a suspect.