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Austin police investigating possible connection between woman’s body and nearby rape

Austin police held a press conference Friday where they stated they are investigating whether a rape at a nearby park and the murder of Nicole Diane Coleman could be linked to the same individuals.

AUSTIN — The Austin Police Department is investigating what they are now considering a homicide after the body of 23-year-old Nicole Diane Coleman was found Monday evening near the 7000 block of Ed Bluestein Blvd.

Not far from where Coleman's body was found, a woman was allegedly raped at Davis White Northeast District Park on Crystalbrook Drive by two men who are homeless in the area.

Jayy Cole, who lives in the area and visits the park weekly, was shocked to hear the news.

"It makes me more cautious. I gotta stay put because there's real crazy out here," Cole said. "This is literally a playground, swings and everything. What if my kid would've seen a female laying right there ... raped? That's kinda hurtful."

Sgt. Tracy Gerrish with the Austin Police Department's Homicide Unit stated it is still an ongoing investigation, but a lot of evidence has been collected and they are waiting on evidence to return from the rape case and more information from the autopsy regarding the murder of Coleman.

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According to Sgt. Gerrish, both suspects in the nearby rape case -- David Green, 58, and Kyle Kenoski, 18 -- are currently in jail.

Texas Department of Public Safety records show Green had a criminal record dating back to 1978, including burglary, robbery and theft. Kenoski was recently in jail for assault, according to APD.

Police said a witness traveling northbound on the service road first reported seeing a body around 5:36 p.m. and led officials to the area. Coleman's body was found along the wood line near the bridge, police reported.

Coleman was found nude with obvious trauma and was pronounced dead at the scene.

RELATED: Two men accused of raping woman at knifepoint at Austin park in 'very violent' case

Police said they have spoken with witnesses and are continuing their investigation.

Limited information is being released right now to maintain the integrity of the investigation, according to police.

Austin Police ask if anyone has any information on this incident or if anyone may have spoken with Coleman recently, they contact them.

The APD is asking the public to call the Homicide Unit at 512-477-3588 or Crime Stoppers at 512-472-TIPS if you have more information or may have seen anything suspicious.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

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