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Stranger attempts to lure youth in Powell River

RCMP investigates suspicious incident
Powell River RCMP
ALARMING INCIDENT: An unknown male suspect reportedly attempted to entice a youth into a vehicle on Friday, October 5.

Powell River RCMP is looking for a vehicle in the investigation of what is described as a suspicious incident involving a youth approached by a male stranger in a late model sedan.

In a media release issued Monday, October 9, RCMP stated that at approximately 11:46 am on Sunday, October 7, police received a report of an incident involving an unknown male in a vehicle who had pulled up beside a youth.

The suspect then invited the youth to enter his vehicle by stating “if you get in the car I’ll give you some candy,” according to the release.

The encounter occurred on Joyce Avenue just above the walking bridge to Powell River Recreation Complex.

“The youth became alarmed, then ran to the complex advising the front desk of the alarming incident,” stated constable Ron Palmquist in the release. “The unknown vehicle was reported to have taken off travelling westbound on Harvie Avenue.”

In an interview, Palmquist said police are confident in the accuracy of the youth’s recollection.

“Members investigating the file spoke at great length to the person who was involved and through that we believe the information that was passed on to us was reliable and we believe it was true in its essence,” said Palmquist.

RCMP describe the vehicle as a silver, two-door, older sedan. It had no back seat. Further details include the car having a large chip of paint missing off the trunk.

The unknown male was described as being approximately six feet tall, with a medium build and dark skin tone on his hands. He was wearing a black balaclava with eye, nose and mouth holes, and had a deep voice, according to police.

Powell River RCMP request that the public provide them with any information they may have that could identify the unknown male, including providing any dashcam videos from anyone who was travelling in the area at the time of this incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Powell River RCMP or Crime Stoppers at 1.800.222.TIPS (8477) or online at bccrimestoppers.com. Callers will remain anonymous.

The RCMP release stated the public should be reminded to be cautious when having any interactions with strangers and to remain vigilant, especially this time of year with Halloween just around the corner.  

Precautions to take include not accepting rides or gifts from strangers, immediately going to a safe place, and immediately reporting the incident to police.

Police also advise parents to speak to their children in regard to a safety plan if they are faced with a similar incident.