The New Westminster Police Department (NWPD) is seeking assistance from the public following an alleged assault on a woman by a stranger in the Sapperton neighborhood earlier this month.
According to authorities, the unsettling incident occurred at around 9 p.m. on September 3 in the 400 block of East Columbia Street. The victim was walking in the area when she was approached by an unknown man who forcefully grabbed her by the throat and pushed her against a wall.
Fortunately, the woman managed to defend herself by kicking the assailant, causing him to flee eastbound from the scene. The suspect is described as a slim-built man around 18 years old, standing approximately 5’3” tall with dark curly hair. At the time of the assault, he was wearing a Nike hoodie and black Adidas sweatpants.
Emergency services responded promptly and assessed the victim at the scene, determining that she did not require hospital transportation.
Sgt. Andrew Leaver expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of any witnesses or individuals with relevant footage, such as dash-cam or surveillance recordings, to come forward and assist investigators in their efforts to apprehend the suspect.
Authorities are specifically interested in hearing from anyone who was present in the vicinity between 8:45 p.m. and 9:10 p.m. on September 3. Those with information are urged to contact the New Westminster Police Department at 604-525-5411.
