Violent sexual assault raises VicPD public safety concerns

Warning: Story contains details of sexual abuse.

Victoria Police are appealing for witnesses to a sexual assault that took place near the intersection of Wharf Street and Pandora Avenue in the early morning of Friday, July 19.

According to police, the attack occurred before 2:30 a.m. The woman was approached by an unknown man at the intersection and taken to a green area near a tulip sculpture known as “The Commerce Canoe.”

According to police, she was threatened and then physically and sexually assaulted. After the attack, the victim ran to a group of people nearby and the suspect fled the area.

According to a press release, officers conducted an extensive search for the suspect and are continuing to gather evidence.

“Given the violent nature of this sexual assault, officers are concerned about the safety of the public,” the press release said.

Police are asking witnesses and anyone with information that may help identify the suspect, including anyone with mobile phone, dashcam or CCTV footage of the area at the time of the attack, to contact EComm control room at 250-995-7654 extension 1.

You can make anonymous reports to Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.