SURREY RCMP are advising the public about an incident that occurred in the South Surrey area Wednesday morning and are appealing for any further information that may lead to the identity of a possible suspect.
On September 6, at approximately 7:50 a.m., Surrey RCMP received a report of a female student who was on her way to school when she was grabbed by an unknown male on a footpath near Earl Marriott Secondary at 15751 16th Avenue. The 14-year-old victim managed to free herself from the suspect and run to the school. Surrey RCMP’s General Duty and Youth Unit officers were immediately dispatched to the area. The suspect fled prior to police arrival and has not been located.
The suspect is described as a Caucasian male, in his 30’s, 5’9”-5’10” tall, with a medium build, wearing a light green t-shirt, dirty blue jeans, and work boots.
The victim was physically uninjured, however, she is understandably upset by the incident. The Surrey School District has sent a letter home to notify parents of this incident and remind students about general safety tips.
While this investigation is still in its early stages, Surrey RCMP remind students who are walking to school to follow a few simple steps to heighten their safety, including:
- Don’t take short cuts. Use main routes and 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.
- Trust your instincts and your feelings.
- Phone home if you are going to be delayed, or if your plans change.
Anyone with more information is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502 or Crime Stoppers, if they wish to remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.solvecrime.ca.
