Surrey RCMP are advising the public to be vigilant of their surroundings and potential vulnerability when alone, after a 54-year-old woman was the victim of an attempted sexual assault early Thursday (June 16) in Southmere Village Park.
Police say that at approximately 5:45 a.m. – near 16 Avenue between 148 Street and Martin Drive – the woman was walking through the park for exercise when a man emerged from the bushes, struck her, forced her to the ground and attempted to sexually assault her.
When the victim screamed and did not submit, the man fled on foot towards the southeast.
The woman received medical attention, but was not hospitalized, and a police team has examined the scene for evidence.
The suspect is described as Caucasian, clean shaven and in his mid-to-late 20s. He is approximately five-foot-nine, with an athletic, lean build, and was wearing blue jeans and a grey or tan shirt. No marks, scars or tattoos were visible.
An RCMP release described the attack as "an isolated incident" but urged the public to use good judgment when they visit parks both earlier and later in the day, due to improving weather and longer daylight hours.
Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call Surrey RCMP at 778-593-3366, or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.