Vernon RCMP seek help after 55-year-old woman assaulted by stranger

Vernon RCMP is investigating after a 55-year-old woman was punched several times by a stranger while in the elevator of her apartment block.

According to a Vernon North Okanagan RCMP media release, the assault took place after the unknown man asked the woman for money and a place to stay.

When she refused, the man became angry and punched her several times.

"An unprovoked assault like this is incredibly concerning," Vernon RCMP Const. Chris Terleski said in the release. "Beyond any physical injuries, the emotional trauma alone the victim experienced is unsettling and the person responsible for this crime needs to be held accountable for their actions.

"We're reaching out to the public for their help with the hope someone with information about this individual will come forward to speak to us."

Police say the assault took place just after 11 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23, in an apartment building at the 3300 block of 35 Avenue in Vernon.

The RCMP describes the subject as a tall, Caucasian male, with a muscular build, dark brown hair and a scraggly beard. He was wearing a dark hoodie and boots at the time of the assault.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP at 250-545-7171 and quote police file 2022-22598 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477) or leave a tip online at www.nokscrimestoppers.com.

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