Attempted child abduction in West End of Vancouver: video found
Image of 'person of interest' released in Stanley Park child 'grabbing' attempt
Vancouver police have released a blurry image of a "person of interest" in the case of an alleged child abduction attempt that sparked a massive search of Stanley Park Friday.
The incident put police on high alert, combing the park and asking park-goers for any relevant video or photographs.
Investigators are also interested in a man shown in a video that has surfaced.
Police were called by parents who reported a man grabbed their eight-year-old daughter and tried to drag her off Friday morning.
"The [Vancouver Police Department] sex unit is now heavily involved," said spokesman Const. Brian Montague.
"We have gathered a number of items that would be considered evidence. We will be looking at DNA profiles."
Vancouver police say the girl was approached from behind near the seawall at around 8:30 a.m PT, but her parents confronted the man.
The man ran off, and was last seen near the pedestrian underpass to Lost Lagoon.
Police say the girl was shaken, but not physically hurt. The scene was combed for evidence and some was collected, including potential DNA.
The suspect is described by police as:
- 20 to 30 years old
- A thin build.
- Having dark hair and a bushy goatee.
- Wearing a green and black camouflage hoodie, green pants and an orange and yellow construction vest.
Police believe the man was lingering in the area prior to the attack.
Pooh Corner Day Care near Lost Lagoon was taking the precaution of not allowing children to play outside.
Police, the K9 unit, the Vancouver Police Mounted Unit and Park Rangers spent much of Friday searching Stanley Park and the area, with about 50 officers, volunteers and park staff getting involved.
