A suspect is in custody after a woman was sexually assaulted near Main Street and East 62 Avenue in Vancouver over the weekend.
The 32-year-old woman was walking alone around 11:45pm Sunday evening when she was approached from behind and sexually assaulted by a stranger. The suspect tried to run away, but the woman chased after him and drew attention to herself by calling out for help.
“Her screams caught the attention of two men in a nearby house, who came outside just as the suspect was fleeing into a yard,” said Sgt. Steve Addison. “The Good Samaritans took custody of the suspect while the woman called 9-1-1, and our officers arrived moments later to take custody of the man.”
Addison said the woman showed tremendous courage and poise.
“This woman showed courage, poise, and presence of mind after being attacked by a complete stranger,” added Sgt. Addison. “We commend her, and the people who assisted her, for tracking down the suspect and helping our officers make this quick arrest.”
#VPDNews: #VPD arrested an alleged groper last night, after he was chased down by the same woman he sexually assaulted moments earlier near Main and E.62nd Ave. Two Good Samaritans held the suspect until police arrived. https://t.co/cDZW7dUN2H pic.twitter.com/yL1lYG5PCQ
— Vancouver Police (@VancouverPD) September 23, 2024
Police have seized the man’s clothing and a vehicle that was parked nearby. Officers are now canvassing the neighbourhood for witnesses and security video.
Police believe the 34-year-old suspect lives in the neighbourhood. He has not yet been formally charged but is due back in court on January 25.
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