An elementary student in Fort St. James was startled by an older youth who scared the child with a physical confrontation and barrage of personal questions. Police are now hoping to learn who the older youth was.
"Over the lunch hour an unknown male approached a young female student who was walking home for lunch from the school grounds [David Hoy Elementary School]," said North District RCMP spokeswoman Const. Lesley Smith. "The male walked up behind the child and turned her around by her shoulders to face him. He then asked her a number of personal questions including if she knew her parents' e-mail or bank account number and if she had any money with her. The student did not respond and ran home unharmed where she reported it to her parents and police."
The suspect is described as:
- an older teenager or young adult;
- medium build, medium height;
- light complexion;
- bald or closely shaven head;
- full dark beard and goatee with facial piercing.
The suspect was wearing a black and gray jacket over a blue shirt, blue jeans and a hat with hand written lettering on it. The male reportedly left the area driving a blue sedan car.
"The local school district was immediately notified and are working closely with the RCMP," Smith said. "Police are investigating the matter and continue to look for the suspect vehicle and any information that may lead them to identifying a suspect."
RCMP are asking anyone who recognizes the description of the suspect or can provide information regarding this incident to call the Fort St. James RCMP at 250-996-8269 or call Crime Stoppers at (1-800-222-TIPS/8477).
