Mounties are looking for more witnesses and video after a woman was strangled near the Hoy Creek Trail in Coquitlam last night, Sept. 7.
Police told the Tri-City News that the woman was walking alone in “a very populated and high-traffic area” at around 7:45 p.m. when she was grabbed by a stranger — from the front and behind — and strangled.
She fought back, which prevented further injury, said Cpl. Alexa Hodgins, the detachment’s media relations manager.
The woman was also helped by passersby who also chased the suspect on foot from the Glen Drive and Johnson Street intersection.
Mounties quickly found the suspect and arrested him inside a nearby store.
The man, who is known to police, is currently in custody pending criminal charges.
“We want to commend the victim who fought back against her attacker and the witnesses who came to her aid. The public’s quick response to this incident helped police locate the suspect swiftly and most likely prevented further injuries to the victim,” said Supt. Keith Bramhill, officer-in-charge at Coquitlam RCMP, in a news release.
“These types of reports are very concerning for the community and our investigators. We want to reassure the public that maintaining safety is our top priority.”
Earlier trail alert
In July, RCMP arrested a man after reports of indecent acts along the Hoy Creek Trail.
According to a letter obtained by the Tri-City News from a tenant living close to the trail and who was approached, the alleged offender was known to cops.
He was described as:
- male
- in his mid 30s
- of Middle Eastern descent
- tall with a slim build
- dark hair, short or shaved head
- speaks with an accent
The Coquitlam resident, who said the suspect had a weapon and was naked below the waist, said she wanted her neighbours to be cautious of the man and not to walk the trail alone.
Hodgins was unable to confirm if the July suspect was the same person as last night's attacker.
Anyone with more information regarding the Sept. 7 assault is asked to call Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550 and quote file number 2023-24214.
