Police hunt for man suspected of beating sex worker, dragging her by van

VANCOUVER – Vancouver police are hunting for a man suspected of beating a sex trade worker who was tied up and dragged by a van.

Police say a 42-year-old woman was picked up in the Downtown Eastside and driven to a secluded area where she was attacked.

Several 911 callers then reported seeing her dragged down the street before she managed to partially free herself and jump from the moving van.

Police conducted an extensive search but were unable to locate the suspect, who police say may have an Australian accent.

His vehicle is described as a white panel van with roof racks.

The woman remains in hospital where she is recovering from a head injury and extensive abrasions.