18-Year Old Kelowna Woman Assaulted and Robbed

Kelowna RCMP are warning the public to be vigilant of their surroundings after a young woman was assaulted and robbed.

On Sunday, February 7th, just after 7:00 p.m., an 18-year old Kelowna woman got off the bus in the Baron Road and Durnin Road area.

The victim told police she was approached from behind by a male suspect. The man struck her on the back of the head and grabbed hold of her purse.

“The victim sustained minor injuries during the incident,” said Kelowna RCMP Cst. Jesse O’Donaghey.

“She pleaded with the suspect, saying “Please,” and the suspect threatened to harm her again. The victim let go of her purse and the suspect fled on foot towards Orchard Park Mall.”

The suspect is being described as a caucasian male, wearing a dark, hooded sweater.

RCMP are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident to contact Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Kelowna RCMP are also reminding the public to be street smart, offering a number of tips to stay safe.

· Keep your head up, stay alert and be aware of your surroundings;

· Take note of people, businesses and other sources of assistance in the area;

· Avoid a person or situation which does not feel safe;

· Plan your route and avoid isolated areas;

· If a criminal is after your purse or other personal belongings, throw them one way while you run the other way;

· If you are robbed or assaulted, try your best to take note of what the suspect looks like, what they were wearing, their direction of travel and call police as soon as it’s safe to do so