Alleged sexual assault

Photo: Contributed

Police are warning the public to be aware of their surroundings following an alleged sexual assault in the Okanagan Landing area of Vernon Monday afternoon.  

Police say they recieved a call around 4 p.m. that a woman was allegedly sexually assaulted while walking home in the 2400 block of Fulton Road.

Police say after the incident, the suspect ran off. Police were unable to track him down. 

The victim was uninjured. 

Police have released a description of the man as provided by the victim.

He's described as a white man, approximately 50 years old, wearing a white t-shirt, blue shorts and a black hat. 

"The police are pursuing all avenues of the investigation to identify the suspect," said Const. Kelly Brett. "We are looking for any witnesses who may have been in the area or heard anything at the time of the assault to come forward and speak to police".

RCMP are offering the public a few safety tips to heighten their safety: 

• 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.
• Phone home if you are going to be delayed, or if your plans change.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP at 250-545-7171. Or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or leaving a tip online at www.nokscrimestoppers.com. You do not have to reveal your identity to Crime Stoppers. If you provide information that leads to an arrest, you could be eligible for a cash reward.