The Vancouver Police are asking parents and guardians to talk to their kids about personal safety, following a suspicious incident yesterday afternoon.
Around 12:15 pm yesterday, a 13 year old girl got off a bus on Main Street at 30th Avenue when she was approached from behind by a stranger. The man grabbed her backpack and startled the girl, who ran to safety. She reported the incident to her mother a short time later, who in turn called police.
The young girl was not harmed in the incident and the intentions of the man are unknown.
Police believe the man may have remained in the area and was possibly seen talking to another man that was seated in a car.
The man was described as white, 6′ tall, with a slim build, and he was wearing all black clothing and a black balaclava.
“This is a good opportunity to talk to your children about their personal safety and being aware of their surroundings,” says Sergeant Randy Fincham, spokesperson for the Vancouver Police Department.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Vancouver Police Department at (604) 717-0601.
Personal Safety Tips
- discuss safety with your children regularly
- teach your children to use the buddy system
- if your kids are approached by a stranger, on foot or in a car, they should keep their distance
- teach your children to be aware of their surroundings and if they notice someone following them, they should go to a crowded area, a store or to someone they trust
- encourage kids to talk about any suspicious incidents and report them to police
For more crime prevention and safety tips, please visit VPD.ca.
