Woman sexually assaulted by stranger in downtown parking lot, police say

Photo: Castanet Staff

Police are hoping tips from the public will help them track down a suspect after a woman was sexually assaulted last weekend by a stranger in a downtown parking lot.

Mounties were called to a parking lot near Fifth Avenue and Victoria Street just after midnight on Sunday for a report of a man trying to steal from a woman.

“Frontline officers attended the area and were flagged down by a woman who stated she was getting into her vehicle when a man jumped in, sexually assaulted her and stole her cellphone,” RCMP Const. Crystal Evelyn said in a news release, noting the phone was recovered.

“The woman was able to honk her horn and yell, causing the suspect to flee westbound on an alley between Seymour and Victoria streets.”

The suspect is described as a white man in his 30s with a raspy voice. He was wearing dark clothing with orange stripes down his arms.

“Our team of investigators has been working diligently, collecting surveillance and witness statements, as well as examining any forensic evidence available,” Evelyn said.

“If anyone saw or heard anything the could assist in furthering this investigation, please reach out and let us know.”

Anyone with information can call police at 250-828-3000.