Vancouver Police say a woman was sexually assaulted by a stranger while walking downtown earlier this month.
On June 11 just after midnight, the 26-year-old woman was walking near West Hastings and Hornby streets when a man she didn't know "grabbed her from behind and sexually assaulted her," explains a release. After fighting him off, she chased the suspect away.
Police say the man is "believed to be in his forties" and was last seen running south on Hornby Street.
The Vancouver Police Department immediately launched an investigation following the assault.
“This woman did everything right. She fought off her attacker, got to a safe place, and called 911,” says VPD spokesperson Cnst. Tania Visintin. “Her quick actions allowed investigators to secure important evidence, including the video we are releasing today.”
Vancouver Police are now releasing a video of the suspect and appealing for witnesses.
“This was a very serious incident, and because the suspect is still at large we have concerns for the public’s safety,” adds Visintin. “We’d like to identify the man in this video and we’re asking anyone who recognizes him, or anyone who saw the assault, to call us right away and speak with investigators.”
Anyone with information is asked to call VPD investigators at 604-717-0603.
