16-year-old girl groped by stranger in Burnaby, B.C.

Police in Burnaby issued a public warning after a 16-year-old girl was groped by a stranger as she was walking in the Royal Oak area of South Burnaby.

Burnaby RCMP said the teen was walking alone in the area of MacPherson Avenue and Rumble Street at around 5:30 p.m. PT Thursday, when a stranger approached her from behind and touched her genital area.

She then ran away, and was not pursued.

Police said she described the man as in his 30s or 40s, and approximately 5'9" with a medium build. He was wearing a black beanie, a black jacket and jeans.

Police are seeking tips, and are also asking people to be vigilant when walking alone — and to avoid distractions such as talking on a cell phone or listening to loud music with earphones.