Man tells police he was stabbed at Red Rock Canyon Open Space

It’s no secret Colorado Springs is a great location for outdoor activities. Especially Red Rock Canyon Open Space, where people hike and bike.

“People bring their kids, people bring their pets. Everyone is usually friendly. I’ve never experienced anything bad,” said Blake Palazzari, who hikes there often.

But just how safe are hikers on the hundreds of Colorado trails?

Officers responded to Memorial Hospital regarding a stabbing. The victim told officers he was hiking at Red Rock Canyon Open Space when a man approached him and demanded his wallet.

The two were involved in a struggle. During this time, the victim was stabbed one time and sustained cuts on his hands. The suspect then ran from the scene.

The victim was taken to the hospital by a friend. He sustained non-life threatening injuries and was later released from the hospital.

“That’s pretty surprising, I guess you have to be prepared for anything,” said Helia Hall another hiker.

There are signs around the parks warning you of the dangers of theft in your cars, but there is nothing reminding you to be aware of your surroundings.

“Mostly I bring my cell phone and something to drink. Not really thinking it’s unsafe because there are people out here all the time but never imagined it would be unsafe because I’ve been coming out here for maybe a year in,” Hall said.

The person who knows most about the safety here is Ryan McNeily, who patrols the area multiple times a week.

He says it’s often people visit the park while under the influence.

“They’re usually doing it before they get here, but they’re definitely walking around on whatever it is they’re doing,” he said.

But overall, he says the park is safe.

“Traffic through here is pretty heavy most days, so there are a bunch of people so if something were to happen then calling for help wouldn’t go unheard,” McNeily said.

Something hikers here are grateful to hear, but the recent crime is still in the back of their minds.
City parks like Red Rock Canyon Open Space aren’t the only ones seeing crime happening on the property.

El Paso County just approved new regulations to cut back on hours in county parks in hopes it helps lower crime.

If anyone has information regarding the incident, call CSPD at (719) 444-7000.