On the same evening as the Take Back The Night march, police announced that a woman in Prince George had suffered a violent sexual attack only hours earlier.
According to Prince George RCMP spokeswoman Const. Lesley Smith, in the early morning hours of Thursday, a lone female was walking on Strathcona Avenue between Victoria Street and Redwood Street when a male grabbed the victim and dragged her into a van.
"The male drove the victim east of town to a secluded area where he sexually assaulted her," Smith said. "The victim was able to escape and contact police after she ran from the area."
RCMP are looking for a Caucasian male with the following description;
- in his early 40's
- 5'8 to 5'10
- 190 to 210 lbs
- has hazel green eyes
- short brown hair with receding hair line
- bushy eyebrows with scar over right eye
- scar on left cheek by mouth
- clean shaven
- clear complexion
The suspect van is described as white or cream coloured with a burgundy interior and windows all around. The van had the rear seats removed and a toy Hula Dancer hanging from the rear view mirror.
"Prince George RCMP are asking the public to be extra vigilant and aware of their surroundings at all times," Smith said. "Police would also like to hear from any witnesses who may have seen a female running down Highway 16 just east of town on the morning of September 23rd."
RCMP are asking anyone with information regarding this incident or anyone who may be able to identify a suspect, to contact the Prince George RCMP at 250-561-3300 or if you would like to remain anonymous please call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) / www.pgcrimestoppers.bc.ca.
"We don't want you name, just your information," said Smith.
