An alleged groper is under arrest after the woman who was sexually assaulted chased him down.
Vancouver police were called about the attack near Main Street and East 62nd Avenue shortly before midnight Sunday.
The 32-year-old woman had been walking alone when a stranger approached from behind and sexually assaulted her. The suspect tried to run but she chased after him while drawing attention to the situation by calling out for help.
“Her screams caught the attention of two men in a nearby house, who came outside just as the suspect was fleeing into a yard,” said VPD Sgt. Steve Addison in a news release. “The Good Samaritans took custody of the suspect while the woman called 911, and our officers arrived moments later to take custody of the man.”
Addison had praise for the woman’s quick thinking and bravery.
“This woman showed courage, poise and presence of mind after being attacked by a complete stranger,” said Addison. “We commend her, and the people who assisted her, for tracking down the suspect and helping our officers make this quick arrest.”
Police have seized the man’s clothing and a vehicle that was parked nearby, and officers are canvassing the neighbourhood for other witnesses and security video.
Investigators think the 34-year-old suspect lives in the neighbourhood. He hasn’t been formally charged but is due back in court on Jan. 25.