Police issue warning and $2,000 reward following second sexual assault in Maple Ridge

Ridge Meadows RCMP are investigating a second attack on a female pedestrian on a trail near 240 Street.

Just after 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday November 26, 2013. a young woman was walking on the Vine Maple Trail, which runs east from the 10600 block of 240 Street to McClure Lane, in the Maple Crest sub-division. The victim was grabbed by an unknown male, and sexually assaulted. The suspect left the area and the victim managed to get to safety, and was later treated at hospital.

“This is the second similar attack in the last few weeks in this same area,” said Sergeant Dale Somerville. “All of our detachment’s resources, and some of the RCMP’s Integrated Specialized Units, are working on these files. Investigators are in contact with other police forces in the Lower Mainland, as well as the RCMP Behavioural Science Unit, to see if there are any links to similar cases. This is a top priority right now! At this time we cannot say that we are looking for one suspect, but there are some similarities in the two cases.”

The suspect in this incident is described as being approximately 6 feet tall with dark clothing and having his face covered, which is similar to the incident that occurred on Thursday November 7, 2013.

“Police want to alert our female citizens to these two incidents. Be aware of your surroundings when out walking, particularly in this area of town,” said Seargeant Somerville. “If possible, walk with a group. We ask for women to refrain from wearing headphones, or other items that may restrict your hearing or awareness. Carry a cellular phone, or anything that is capable of creating a loud noise, which is a good deterrent. Report all suspicious persons to police as soon as possible, and we will respond.”

Anyone with any information is asked to call Ridge Meadows RCMP at 604-463-6251, or if you wish to remain anonymous call CRIME STOPPERS at 1 800 222-8477 or leave a TIP online at www.solvecrime.ca. Crime Stoppers will pay a reward of up to $2,000.00 if your information leads to an arrest and conviction.

Source: RCMP | Featured Image: Creatista / Shutterstock