The woman who claimed she was attacked by two men at Silver Creek Metro Park on July 28, made it all up. On Aug. 1, authorities said the 32-year-old woman caused her own wounds.
“The person who made the report admitted the injuries were self-inflicted and the report she made was not accurate. No other individuals were involved in the incident,” Lindsay Smith, Chief of Marketing & Communications for Summit County Metro Parks, said in a statement.
The woman admitted to investigators she self-applied gasoline to her pants and proceeded to ignite a fire.
“We understand this incident has caused significant fear for our park visitors. We hope the conclusion and outcome of this case will reassure those who were wary of visiting the trails, as there is no public threat resulting from this false claim,” Smith said. “We hope through this unfortunate circumstance the person involved receives the care and support she needs. If you are experiencing distress, please contact 988 to reach the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline.”
The woman is seeking care at a local hospital at this time.
On July 28, 2024, the Chippewa Township woman lied and said she was attacked while walking the Chippewa Trail in Silver Creek Metro Park and that two men threw a substance on her legs that caused severe burns.
It’s not known what consequence the woman will face for making up the incident. “Investigators will discuss with the Barberton Municipal Court Prosecutor’s Office to determine whether charges are appropriate. Those charges have yet to be determined,” Smith said.
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Previous Coverage can be found here.
