Sexual assault in Burnaby, B.C., neighbourhood prompts warning

RCMP Generic pic

Authorities have issued a public warning after a woman came forward to report being sexually assaulted in a Burnaby, B.C., neighbourhood earlier this month.

The victim said she was attacked while walking near Stride Avenue and Griffiths Drive—an area of South Burnaby with schools nearby—around 10 p.m. on June 3.

“Someone approached her from behind and hugged her, causing her to fall to the ground,” Burnaby RCMP said in a news release Thursday. “The suspect groped her buttocks and covered her mouth while she yelled.”

The suspect ultimately let go and ran away after the woman fought back, authorities said.

The RCMP said the victim did not get a good look at the assailant, and was unsure of their gender. The suspect is believed to be between 5’5” and 5’10” tall, with a medium build, and was dressed in dark clothing.

The woman came forward to report the incident on Monday, and Cpl Mike Kalanj applauded her bravery in doing so—and in fending off the attack.

“While the description of the suspect is not solid in this case, we want the public to be aware of the incident and to be vigilant while walking alone at night,” Kalanj said in a statement.