A seven-year-old student from Kootenay Orchard School was grabbed by an adult male while walking a path behind the 1900 block of 12th Street South, Cranbrook, BC. The seven-year-old reported she was able to get away from the man and ran home.
The child's mother reported the incident to police when she came home from work. The only description of the suspect provided is that the male is possibly in his 40s, five-foot-eight to six feet tall, Caucasian with short brown hair, wearing jeans, T-shirt and runners.
Cranbrook RCMP continue to investigate and are asking parents to accompany their children to school or have their children walk with a group if possible.
Cranbrook RCMP are also asking that anyone who was in the area of the location on 12th Street South between 2:30 pm and 4 pm this date to contact them if you have any information in relation to this crime at (250)489-3471.
School District 5 released a statement on Wednesday asking parents to review safety procedures with their children.
"Advice such as walking in groups and not stopping to talk to strangers are always welcome conversations for families," reads the letter, released by Jason Tichauer, Safe School Coordinator with SD5. "As well, if you have children that do not feel comfortable walking home, please be advised that your school will be contacting you to arrange pickup."
Tichauer adds that the school district has been working hand-in-hand with the RCMP since the incident was reported on Tuesday evening.
If anyone has any questions or concerns about the information provided, Tichauer can be contacted at the School District office at 250-426-4201.