FILE PHOTO

(KIM ANDERSON / iNFOnews.ca)

A woman walking through a Kamloops park reported she was sexually assaulted Sunday evening.

The woman was walking on the path through Strathcona Park where a man came up behind and "grabbed her in a sexual nature," according to a Kamloops RCMP news release.

The unknown man left toward Strathcona Terrace after the woman freed herself from the altercation, police said.

“This happened during the sunset portion of the evening, when people may have been jogging, walking their dog or just strolling in the neighbourhood and could have observed something that might be related," Kamloops RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Crystal Evelyn said in the release.

Police were called just after 9 p.m. Sunday, July 9, and are looking to the public for witnesses.

"We are asking anyone who saw anything suspicious – a vehicle, a person – or anything else they think could help further the investigation, to please contact police as soon as possible," Evelyn said.

The suspect is described as a Caucasian man in his 40s with a medium build. He had a beard at the time and was wearing a dark hat, shirt and shorts.

Police are also recommending the public be alert and keep in contact with people so they know your route while outside.

“Some good safety practices include walking or running with a partner and allowing space between yourself and other people or parked vehicles along your path,” Evelyn said. “If you’re running alone, be aware of your surroundings; remove any earbuds, stick to well-populated areas, and try to conserve enough energy to be able to stay focused and alert.”

Anyone with information can contact the Kamloops RCMP detachment at 250-828-3000.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Levi Landry or call 250-819-3723 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above. SUBSCRIBE to our awesome newsletter here.

News from © iNFOnews, 2023