Police say man wearing white mask grabbed woman from behind while she was walking home

SURREY — Police are warning the public about a sexual assault that happened in North Surrey Monday night.

Surrey RCMP say they were called at 10:25 p.m., after a woman had reportedly been grabbed from behind by an unknown man wearing a white mask. It happened while she was walking home in the 12700 block of 113A Avenue.

Police say the victim screamed after she was grabbed, causing the man to run away before police arrived.

Surrey RCMP say the victim believes she was followed home prior to the incident. The victim describes the suspect as a 5’9” Asian man, slim to medium build and short, black hair that is spiked in the front.

At the time, the suspect was wearing a dark hoodie under a black vest or jacket. He was also wearing black-framed eyeglasses, a white mask, and dark baggy pants. The suspect may also have been carrying a backpack, according to the victim.

Surrey Corporal Scotty Schumann said police don’t have further details about the mask to share at this point.

On Wednesday, Schumann said police are “actively” investigating this incident and “are following up with the results of the neighbourhood canvass today.”

“To reduce the likelihood of being victimized, pedestrians are encouraged to walk with confidence and be aware of their surroundings,” Schumann said in a press release. “Trust your instincts and call police if you feel your safety is in jeopardy at any time. Stay visible, stick to well-lit areas, and don’t wear dark clothing at night.”

Surrey RCMP’s Special Victims Unit (SVU) is leading the investigation.

Anyone with more information is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502.

If you wish to make an anonymous report please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or solvecrime.ca.



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