Woman dragged off path and sexually assaulted in Whitby: police

Police say the assault happened at Iroquois Beach Park in the area of Gordon Street and Waterfront Trail. (Chopper24)

Durham Regional Police say they are looking for a suspect wanted in connection with an alleged “violent” sexual assault in a Whitby park Monday night.

According to police, officers were called to Iroquois Beach Park, in the area of Gordon Street and the Waterfront Trail, after receiving reports that a woman had been sexually assaulted.

The victim was walking along the beach after leaving the park when police allege the suspect dragged her off the path into a tree-lined area, where he then threatened and sexually assaulted her.

The victim managed to flee the area to a nearby street, where she flagged down a motorist to contact police. She was then taken to hospital.

Police say the suspect fled the scene before officers arrived. Police conducted a search using K9 units and drone surveillance, but the suspect managed to evade arrest.

Police provided a description of the suspect. He is described as a Black man with shoulder-length cornrow-style hair and was last seen wearing all-black clothing.

Police are asking anyone with cellphone, dashcam or surveillance footage, or any information regarding the incident, to contact D/Cst. Jiggins of the Special Victims Unit at 1-888-579-1520, ext. 5312.

Anonymous information can also be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online.

Police said tipsters “may be eligible for a cash reward” in exchange for information.

If you or someone you know is struggling with sexual assault or trauma, the following resources are available to support people in crisis:

• Call 911 if you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety.
• The Canadian Association of Sexual Assault Centres' website has a comprehensive list of sexual assault centres in Canada that offer information, advocacy and counselling.
• The Ending Violence Association of Canada‘s website has links to helplines, support services and locations across Canada that offer sexual assault kits.
• Indian Residential School Survivors Society crisis lines: [phone] or [phone] (24/7)
• Toronto Rape Crisis Centre crisis line: [phone] (24/7)
• Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline: [phone] (24/7)
• Trans Lifeline: [phone]
• Suicide Crisis Helpline: call or text 988 (24/7)
• Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre for current and former Canadian Armed Forces members: [phone]
• Read about your rights as a victim on the Canadian Resource Centre for Victims of Crime website.