Morning jogger, 23, raped

She was dropped off in the same area about an hour later. Police are releasing few details about where the van may have gone for that hour for concern it could jeopardize the investigation as officers continue to look for potential witnesses, said Redwood City police Sgt. Ed Hernandez.

Investigators are hopeful witnesses can help crack this case.

"A couple of folks have already called in with possible leads," Hernandez said.

The men are described as Hispanic in their mid 20s. One is 5 feet 6 inches tall and about 140 pounds. Another is 6 feet tall, thin and was armed with a handgun. The third man was driving the van.

Officers distributed about 200 fliers to residents near the intersection asking people to report any suspicious circumstances and to also be aware of their surroundings. The intersection is close to the Menlo Country Club and a few blocks from Henry Ford Elementary School.

"Be alert to your surroundings and those who might be around you, common sense things we take for granted," Hernandez said.

The brazen mid-day kidnapping isn't as uncommon as it seems. Similar crimes have happen at all hours of the day, Hernandez said.

The last rape case Redwood City investigated happened four years ago and involved an underage girl. However, a rape involving kidnapping and a gun hasn't happened in many years, Hernandez said.

Last month, police investigated a report of a young woman who was jogging and saw men watching her from a similar white van. Police are re-examining that case, but as of now, do not believe the two are connected.

Anyone who observed any suspicious people or activity in the neighborhood during the time of the assault, or in the recent past, should contact Detective Eric Acha at 780-7100.

Dana Yates can be reached by e-mail: dana@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext. 106. What do you think of this story? Send a letter to the editor: letters@smdailyjournal.com.