Coquitlam RCMP is asking for your help identifying a man who was involved in a confrontation with a boy in Victoria Park. Police want to hear the man’s side of the story, and until they do, it’s important that people avoid drawing conclusions based on early, incomplete information.
In almost every emergency, the facts that were initially reported can change dramatically as the investigation progresses, says Corporal Michael McLaughlin with Coquitlam RCMP. Many similar confrontations are initially reported as stranger abductions, yet confirmed cases are extremely rare. It’s important that people avoid drawing conclusions based on early reports they read on social media.
So far, police have established that on March 16, 2020, at 1:00 p.m., a confrontation occurred between a 9-year-old boy and an older man on the north side of Victoria Park, 3435 Victoria Drive, Coquitlam.
The man is described as:
A Caucasian man who may be in his fifties,
Short brown hair with a brown beard,
Possibly wearing blue jeans and a black denim vest or jacket,
Driving a newer model silver sedan or coupe.
The weather was sunny and the park was very busy, so police are hoping that someone who saw the man, or the man himself, will call police and explain what happened.
It’s completely understandable that people are concerned, and police take these reports very seriously, but it’s important that everyone remain calm, says Corporal McLaughlin. Our Major Crime Unit has been assigned. Their number one priority is public safety and if there is any further risk to the public, we’ll let you know right away.
If you saw what happened, or you’re the man who was involved and want to tell your side of the story, please call the Coquitlam RCMP non-emergency number at 604-945-1550 and ask to speak to the Major Crime Unit (file 2020-7193).