Found: one crime scene. Wanted: one victim.
Police know a violent assault took place at a house near downtown Prince George, but they don't know who got hurt or who inflicted the pain.
Some fresh blood and other clues were left behind at a house where the incident took place, but no one remained there. Investigators can't find the victim - an element needed in eventually identifying a suspect.
"It is unknown what type of injuries he has, where they are on the victim's body, but it is safe to say there was blood at the scene and other evidence of assault as well. We are very concerned for the safety of this victim," said Prince George RCMP spokeswoman Const. Lesley Smith.
Police do not know who the victim is, but a description was obtained from people who saw parts of this puzzle. Smith said investigators believe the victim is a man about 35 years old, Caucasian, with blonde hair and wears glasses.
"No victims have come to our attention or the attention of the hospital," Smith said. "We are asking that family members think about if they have a brother or son or uncle who may have unexplained injuries or who have come up with a story about the injuries that doesn't match up, doesn't sit right, or it's vague on details."
Police believe the incident is rooted in the drug trade. As a result, the victim may be ashamed or fearful to tell the truth about the injuries, or may feel reluctant to contact police about this beating. Smith said the RCMP is interested in the victim getting medical attention and the ones responsible for this assault not being allowed to do it again anytime soon.
"Our main concern is for his well-being, as the victim of a serious assault," said Smith. "Despite someone's lifestyle, the RCMP does not judge an individual who is the victim of a crime. All victims are taken very seriously and the RCMP wants to identify those responsible but also help the victim in any way we can."
The violence happened at a small house in the 2200 block of Spruce Street. Police were called there on Wednesday evening just before 7 p.m. Those involved in the incident had not been gone long. The home was a rental property so the investigation is, in part, checking into who the tenant was.
"All of these indicators put together will hopefully put us in contact with the right person and ultimately get them the help that they need," said Smith.
Anyone with possible information is asked to call police at (250) 561-3300 as soon as possible. If you would like to remain anonymous please contact Crime Stoppers at 1(800)222-TIPS (8477), online at www.pgcrimestoppers.bc.ca, or Text-A-Tip to CRIMES using keyword "pgtips".
