Just before 9 p.m., on Sunday July 14 2019 Burnaby RCMP responded to a report of an alleged assault that had taken place on a trail near the SFU campus.
At around 8:30 p.m., the 19-year-old female victim went for a walk on a trail just North of University Drive and West Campus Road at SFU towards Burnaby Mountain Park.
The victim told police that as she was walking she noticed a man following her who tried to engage her in conversation. The man is alleged to have grabbed the victim by her hand, the victim was able to pull away from the suspect and run to a nearby parking lot where she sought assistance from other people.
The man then walked to the parking lot and continued to attempt to engage with the victim before leaving in a car which is described as being a grey or black four door Acura.
The suspect in this incident is described as;
South Asian Male
5’9 tall
Aged 19 to 23 years old
Brown eyes
Clean shaven
Wearing a black turban, blue long sleeve shirt, grey sweat pants and black sandals
If you witnessed this incident, know who the suspect is or have any information that would help police in our investigation you are asked to contact Burnaby RCMP at 604-646-9999 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222—TIPS or go to www.solvecrime.ca
Burnaby RCMP is asking that members of the public continue to be vigilant when using trails in this area and please follow the advice below:
If you see anything suspicious then please contact police immediately.
Be mindful of your surroundings and your own personal safety.
Try not to walk alone, instead walk in pairs or groups particularly in the evening.
Do not wear headphones or become distracted by your phone when you’re walking – it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
This was a frightening situation for this victim who thankfully was able to get to safety, says Corporal Mike Kalanj with Burnaby RCMP. We are asking that people remain vigilant on the trails, following our advice and if you know who this suspect is then please contact police immediately.