Vernon RCMP investigating hotel robbery and assault

VERNON – Police in Vernon are searching for a suspect after a local hotel clerk was robbed and assaulted with a crowbar overnight.

Vernon RCMP spokesperson Const. Kelly Brett says in a news release police were called to the Days Inn Motel at 5121 26th Street at approximately 8 p.m. yesterday, Jan. 10, for a report of a robbery and assault.

A man entered the hotel and allegedly demanded cash from the hotel clerk. He was told there was no money kept on site.

The man then allegedly produced a metal crowbar after not finding any cash, and demanded the clerk hand over her purse. Before he fled, she was struck on the leg with the crowbar.

Brett says the man fled in a vehicle with the clerk's purse and cell phone.

"The clerk did the right thing by following the male’s demands in an effort to mitigate further injuries from occurring," she says. "Risking your life for personal belongings is just not worth it."

The clerk sustained minor injuries and didn't require medical attention. The suspect has not been located.

Police are searching for a man described as Caucasian, 35 to 40 years old, 5'9" to 5'10" and skinny. He was wearing blue jeans, a black hooded sweater, a white scarf around his neck, a black hat with a brim and carrying a dark coloured bag with a cross shoulder strap.

Witnesses reported seeing an older model white, two-door GMC truck fleeing the scene.

Anyone with information is asked to call Vernon RCMP at 250-545-7171 or Crime Stoppers at 1 800-222-8477.