Man Arrested in San Jose After Two Women Sexually Assaulted on Los Gatos Creek Trail

San Jose Community Shocked by Broad-Daylight Attacks

The peaceful routine of morning joggers and walkers along the Los Gatos Creek Trail in San Jose was shattered this week after two women were reportedly attacked within a short span of time. Authorities have since arrested a 21-year-old man in connection with the disturbing incidents, bringing temporary relief to the community while the investigation continues.

Early Morning Ambush Sparks Investigation

The first assault was reported just before 9 a.m. on Wednesday, June 5, 2024. According to San Jose police, a woman walking near Leigh Avenue was suddenly ambushed by a man who forcefully threw her to the ground and sexually assaulted her. The victim, demonstrating remarkable courage, fought back and managed to escape the attacker before calling for help.

Responding officers searched the area, but the suspect had already fled the scene. Investigators quickly reviewed surveillance footage from the area, which, while not revealing a clear image of the suspect's face, captured his clothing and build — key clues in identifying him.

Second Victim Comes Forward with Similar Account

While officers were still at the scene of the first attack, a second woman reached out to authorities to report a similar encounter. She, too, had been assaulted on the same trail around the same time and described the attacker in a way that matched the first victim’s account.

The fact that two similar attacks occurred in close proximity and timeframe indicated that the community could be facing a serial offender. Detectives from the Sexual Assaults Unit swiftly escalated their investigation.

Suspect Identified and Arrested within 24 Hours

Police were able to identify the suspect as Pablo Chan, a resident of Campbell. On the evening of Thursday, June 6, members of San Jose’s MERGE Unit — the city’s specialized tactical team — located and arrested Chan in a parking lot near Leigh Avenue and De Rose Way, not far from the site of the alleged assaults.

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Chan has been booked into the Elmwood Correctional Facility in Milpitas on charges including felony aggravated kidnapping, sexual assault, and two outstanding misdemeanor warrants. He is currently being held without bail, and his arraignment is expected to take place in the coming days.

Community Cooperation Praised by Authorities

Law enforcement officials credited the rapid arrest to a collaborative effort between detectives, the Campbell Police Department, and vigilant members of the public. Their swift action, police say, played a vital role in helping remove a dangerous suspect from the streets.

Ongoing Appeal for Information

Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the attacks or has additional information about Pablo Chan to come forward. Detective Ashley Travaglione can be reached at 408-277-4102 or via email at 4741@sanjoseca.gov. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers by calling 408-947-7867 or visiting siliconvalleycrimestoppers.org.