Woman grabbed, followed on Burnaby Mountain trail: RCMP

Burnaby residents are being warned after a man allegedly grabbed and followed a woman who was walking alone along a Burnaby Mountain trail.

According to Burnaby RCMP, the 19-year-old woman was walking along a trail near University Drive and West Campus Road at SFU towards Burnaby Mountain Park.

Police said the woman reported being followed by a man, who tried to engage her in conversation. The man then allegedly grabbed the woman’s hand, at which point she ran to a nearby parking lot where police say she sought help from passers-by.

The suspect followed her to the parking lot and tried again to engage with the woman, before leaving in a grey or black four-door Acura, according to police.

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“This was a frightening situation for this victim who thankfully was able to get to safety,” said Cpl. Mike Kalanj with Burnaby RCMP.

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“We are asking that people remain vigilant on the trails, following our advice and if you know who this suspect is then please contact police immediately.”

Investigators are now looking for a man described as South Asian, five-foot-nine and between the ages of 19 and 23-years-old.

Police said he had brown eyes, was clean shaven, and was wearing a black turban, a blue long-sleeved shirt, grey sweatpants and black sandals.

Burnaby RCMP is also releasing recommendations for people using the trails in the area:

• If you see anything suspicious then please contact police immediately.
• Be mindful of your surroundings and your own personal safety.
• Try not to walk alone, instead walk in pairs or groups particularly in the evening.
• Do not wear headphones or become distracted by your phone when you’re walking — it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times.