Sexual Assault Investigation – CCTV Video Released
The Calgary Police Service is releasing CCTV video of a person of interest, as they continue to investigate a stranger sexual assault in the community of Canyon Meadows.
On Sunday, June 15, 2014, a woman in her 20s exited a CTrain at Heritage Station, before boarding a Calgary Transit bus at approximately 10:55 p.m.
A man got on the bus at the same time.
The woman had been on the CTrain since boarding on the northwest line. Investigators believe the man boarded at Chinook Station, before following the woman onto the bus at Heritage Station.
Both passengers exited the bus at Elbow Drive and Canata Place S.W., at approximately 11:10 p.m.
The man followed the woman as she walked westbound.
As the woman walked on the pathway through a green space between Canata Close and Canterbury Drive S.W., it is alleged the man ran quickly towards her.
The culprit threatened the woman with a weapon, and then repeatedly sexually assaulted her.
The victim was eventually able to run to safety, where she called police. She was then transported to a local hospital to be treated for minor injuries.
Investigators believe the sexual assault occurred for approximately 10 minutes, starting at approximately 11:10 p.m. Nearby residents may have heard the victim screaming, particularly at the beginning of the attack, and as she ran away. Anyone who saw or heard anything is asked to contact police.
The suspect is described as black with a medium skin tone, in his 20s, approximately 6’ tall, with a slim build and short afro. He was wearing a grey jacket, a green T-shirt, black runners, jeans and a dark-brimmed hat. It is believed he spoke with a French accent.
The CPS Sex Crimes Unit is working very closely with Calgary Transit Public Safety and Enforcement, who has provided valuable assistance.
On Monday, June 16, 2014, Calgary Transit CCTV photos of a person of interest were released on The City of Calgary Newsroom.
Today, Tuesday, June 17, 2014, investigators are releasing CCTV video of the person of interest.
The video, and additional photos, are available at The City of Calgary Newsroom.
Also taken by Calgary Transit security cameras, the video shows the man has a distinctive gait.
Anyone with information on this incident, including the identity of the suspect, is asked to call police at 403-266-1234 or Crime Stoppers anonymously using any of the following methods:
TALK: 1-800-222-8477
TYPE: tttTIPS.com
TEXT: tttTIPS to 274637
Police are offering the following safety tips to all Calgarians to protect themselves:
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Try to stay in well-lit, well-populated areas whenever possible.
- Minimize using distracting technology like music players and cell phone.
- Make sure whenever possible others are aware of your route and your expected arrival time.
- Develop a safety plan: let someone you trust know where you are going, and when to expect you back.
- If you are suspicious of someone, trust your instincts. Do not engage in any conversation and proceed to the nearest safe or public place and report the incident immediately. Scream or use a personal emergency alarm to attract attention.
- If you see anything suspicious, call police at 403-266-1234 or call 911 to report a crime in progress.
Case # 14221416
Information on a media availability was sent in a separate advisory.