BURNABY (NEWS 1130) – The Integrated Homicide Investigation (IHIT) are calling the murder of 13-year-old Marrisa Shen in Burnaby last week a random attack.

Shen was last seen leaving her home not far from the crime scene at 6 p.m. on July 18th. Her body was found in Central Park about seven hours later.

@HomicideTeam not saying how Marissa Shen murdered or if was sexually assaulted or if she knew her killer, but it was 'random.' @NEWS1130 pic.twitter.com/EqFbgTn77Z — Marcella Bernardo (@Bernardo1130) July 26, 2017

“The homicide of Marrisa Shen has been a crashing blow to this community,” Burnaby RCMP Superintendent Chuck McDonald told reporters today.

“It is very difficult to make sense of, and as a parent of two daughters, I cannot begin to imagine the impact and the terrible toll this has had on Marrisa’s family. This incident has shaken us all.”

No arrests have been made in the case, and no suspects have been named.

Corporal Meghan Foster says no links have been made between Shen’s homicide and any other reported acts of violence.

Police confirm murder of 13-year-old Marissa Shen in #Burnaby was random. Risk to public is possible. Increased patrols in #CentralPark. pic.twitter.com/PfvKlEYIBA — Marcella Bernardo (@Bernardo1130) July 26, 2017

IHIT has already received a number of tips from the public. They continue to ask for anyone who may have taken photos or video in or around Central Park between 6 p.m. on July 18th and 1 a.m. on July 19th to contact them immediately.

Police are also advising the public to take the following special safety precautions:

– Don’t walk or jog early in the morning or late in the evening when streets are dark

– If possible, walk with friends or in pairs

– Be aware of your surroundings

– Stay visible and stick to well-lit areas

– Walk with confidence

– If you think someone is following you, switch directions or cross the street

– If the person continues to follow you, move purposefully into store, restaurant, or lighted house

– Don’t be afraid to yell and/or call 9-1-1

An RCMP safety booklet for children and youth can be found here.