Rapes in SoDo investigated; man held in most recent attacks

Seattle police are investigating four sexual assaults in and around the SoDo neighborhood, including two this morning.

Officers are increasing patrols in SoDo and the densely wooded area at the base of Beacon Hill, known as "The Jungle," said police Sgt. Sean Whitcomb.

"We will be proactively searching for additional witnesses and any new victims who have not reported similar crimes," Whitcomb said..

Police said it appears that at least two men are responsible for the assaults.

Officers arrested a 42-year-old man this morning in connection with a 4:35 a.m. rape. He's also suspected in another attack today at 1:48 a.m., Whitcomb said.

But police do not think he is linked to the first two reported assaults.

The first rape occurred on June 8 in the 7000 block South Spokane Street. In that incident the victim was homeless, Whitcomb said.

Police received a report of an attempted rape on June 10 in the 3200 block of 3rd Avenue South. That victim also was homeless.

This morning's attacks occurred in the 1100 block of 14th Avenue South and 1700 block of Occidental Avenue South. Both victims told police they are not homeless, Whitcomb said.

Investigators with department's Sexual Assault Unit are investigating.

Jennifer Sullivan: 206-464-8294 or jensullivan@seattletimes.com