Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Richmond are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man who allegedly tried to lure a boy with candy.

Officers say that on December 3, a boy was walking to school when he was allegedly offered candy by a man driving a white van. According to a release, the incident took place between 8:05am and 8:30am in a laneway near the 10400 block of Seacote Road.

The RCMP say the boy continued on his way to school and did not engage with the man. He reported the incident to school officials, who then contacted police.

This boy did exactly what he should have. He stayed away from the vehicle, got himself to a safe place, and reported it, said Corporal Adriana Peralta. We want to remind parents of the importance of talking to your children about strangers.

Police describe the suspect as being a Caucasian male who is approximately 20 years old with long brown/blonde hair. He was wearing a black t-shirt, and has a pimple on his forehead and a scar on the left side of his face.

A vehicle of interest is described as a White Econoline Van from the early 2000’s, with windows on all sides.

Richmond RCMP

Officers are conducting patrols in the area and canvassing for video surveillance.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or recognizes the vehicle is asked to contact Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212 and quote file number 2020-33014. To remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.