Woman sexually assaulted on SFU Burnaby campus

Feb 23 2017, 10:56 am

Burnaby RCMP is investigating a sexual assault on the SFU Burnaby Mountain Campus on Tuesday night.

According to an RCMP release, the assault took place at approximately 7:30 pm, when a woman was walking from her classroom towards the parking lot. The woman heard a noise behind her and a man grabbed her. He then proceeded to hold her and sexually assault her.

The woman was able to resist her attacker and he eventually released her and ran away when he heard voices from passers-by in the area.

Burnaby RCMP describes the suspect as:

  • Male
  • Tall
  • Medium to heavy build
  • Having a deep voice with no accent
  • Wearing a grey, long-sleeved hoodie or no shirt

On Wednesday night, SFU’s Chief Safety Officer Mark LaLonde issued a safety alert to let students know about the assault on the member of the SFU community.

“The university community member did not appear to be physically harmed, however she was understandably badly shaken,” said LaLonde. “SFU Safety and Risk Services are working with the survivor to provide support and assistance.”

Lalonde described the sexual assault as “very upsetting” and emphasized that in response, SFU had increased security on campus, especially in more secluded areas.

If you feel worried about walking alone on campus, SFU suggests the following:

  • Add the SFU Campus Security phone number to your contacts: 778-782-4500.
  • If you see suspicious individuals or feel threatened, call 911 or Campus Security immediately.
  • If you wish to get someone to escort you on campus, call Campus Security and ask for the Safewalk program
  • Identify the nearest direct-line security telephone or blue emergency phone in areas you commonly visit.
  • Find more safety information and resources in SFU’s Personal Safety Guides.

Burnaby RCMP is asking for the public’s help to identify this individual and urge you to contact them if you have information, or if this person sounds familiar to you.

Call Burnaby RCMP’s at 604-294-7922 or Crime Stoppers, if you wish to remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-TIPS or solvecrime.ca.

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