Mounties are asking for the public’s help identifying two suspects in a sexual assault that happened near the Edmonds SkyTrain station in July.
The incident took place around 9 p.m. on July 8 when a woman was walking home in the area of Edmonds SkyTrain station. The woman was approached by two men who proceeded to pull her into the nearby bushes, according to a media release from the Burnaby RCMP.
The suspects forced the woman to the ground, and while one suspect attempted to sexually assault her, the other rummaged through her bag, the release added.
The victim resisted the advances of the suspect and began screaming, scaring them both away, according to the release.
“Thankfully the female victim was not injured,” Cpl. Daniela Panesar, spokesperson for the Burnaby RCMP, said in the release. “Although we believe this to be an isolated incident, we take this opportunity to remind all pedestrians to be aware of their surroundings when walking alone late at night and consider walking with a friend when possible.”
A sketch artist was able to, with the help of the victim, create a sketch of one of the suspects.
The first suspect is described as a black man, about 27 or 28 years old with short black hair and an average build. He is about six feet tall and weighs approximately 190 pounds.
The second suspect is also described as a black man, also about 27 or 28 years old. He is about six foot one inch tall, and weighs about 220 pounds with a muscular build.
Anyone with information on this attack or the identities of the two suspects is asked to contact Const. So at 604-294-7922 and quote file number 2015-31471. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.
Burnaby RCMP recommend the following ‘Street Smart’ safety tips:
When you are out alone, be prepared for anything that may put you at risk
o Keep your head up, stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.
o Take note of the people, businesses and sources of assistance in the area.
o Avoid a person or a situation which does not feel safe.
When walking, jogging, biking alone
o Plan your route to avoid isolated areas.
o Vary your route, don’t be predictable.
o Walk near a curb and away from alleys and doorways
o Don’t overburden yourself with heavy parcels or a bulky purse
o Use a money belt or pouch to conceal money and important documents.
o Don’t display cash in public.
o Always carry personal identification, medical and emergency contact information with you.
When travelling at night
o Wear reflective gear.
o If riding on transit, ask the driver whether you can be let off closer to your destination.
What to do
o If you believe you are being followed, cross the street, go to the nearest group of people or business and call the police.
o If you are suddenly confronted by a predator who demands that you go with him, run away, yell for help, throw a rock through a store or car window – do whatever you can to attract attention.
o If the criminal is after your purse or other material items, throw them one way while.
o If you are robbed/assaulted, try to take note of what the suspect(s) looks like and their direction of travel. Physical descriptors such as: height/weight, clothing, and visible markings like scars, tattoos or piercings can help the police in later identifying the suspect. Call police as soon as it is safe to do so.
For more safety tips visit http://burnaby.bc.rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
