EDMONTON – The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) is warning people in the city’s southwest after a 16-year-old girl was assaulted Thursday evening.
Officers say the girl was allegedly jumped from behind and forced to the ground by a man while walking home from school. The incident happened in an alley near a Mac’s convenience store, in the area of 17 Avenue and Towne Centre Blvd, shortly before 5:00 p.m.
“She was able to get away, ran to a nearby residence where police were contacted,” said EPS spokesperson Scott Pattison.
The 16-year-old suffered minor injuries, police said.
Police believe this incident could be connected to a similar assault that occurred near Tanner Wynd on Nov. 8, 2013. Police say in that case the suspect approached a woman and aggressively pushed her against a fence.
“Similar M.O., where it doesn’t appear there was sexual intent, but individuals were assaulted in the Terwillegar area, females were jumped,” Pattison explained.
“This happened in broad daylight, pretty much,” he said. “If indeed they are connected, we want people to be made aware of it.”
The EPS is encouraging residents to be aware of their surroundings at all times.
“If they’re into fitness, if they’re jogging, go out with people and make sure people know where you’re going, when you’re supposed to come home,” Pattison added.
The male suspect is described as 5′ 10″ tall with an average build. He was wearing dark clothing, a balaclava and gloves.
Anyone with information about these assaults is asked to contact the EPS at 780-123-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.
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