The Surrey RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in their investigation into a stranger assault on a youth that occurred in the Tynehead area of Surrey on January 16.
At approximately 4:15 pm, a 14 year-old female youth was walking home from school in the 9300 block of 157 Street adjacent to Bel Air Park. The youth observed a male standing at the path into the park as she walked past.
As the youth continued to walk she noticed the male was now walking behind her. The youth increased her pace, which the male did too. The male then grabbed the youth on the shoulder. The youth quickly kicked backwards, striking the male which caused the male to let go. The youth ran home while calling her parents on the way advising them what occurred.
Surrey RCMP Frontline and Youth Unit officers attended the area and made patrols looking for the suspect as well as conducted neighbourhood enquiries for witnesses and surveillance video.
The suspect male was described as: a Caucasian male, wearing a black hoody, grey sweatpants and black running shoes. The youth did not see the suspect’s face.
The Surrey RCMP Special Victim’s Unit currently has conduct of the investigation with the continued assistance from the Surrey RCMP Youth Unit. Officers are looking into whether this incident is related to any other similar incidents and will be continuing extra patrols in and around Surrey schools with assistance from additional units.
Investigator’s are asking for anyone who was in the area between 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm who may have dash-cam footage to contact police.
Surrey RCMP are providing tips to the community regarding personal safety precautions:
Don’t take short cuts. Use main routes, avoid lanes, forested or secluded areas
Walk with friends
Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back
Phone home when leaving a friend’s house and say when you will be home
Don’t assist strangers
Trust your instincts and your feelings and know your surroundings
Phone if you are going to be delayed, or if your plans change
Anyone with information or witnessed this occurrence who has not already spoken with police, is asked to call Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www.solvecrime.ca.