BURNABY RCMP are encouraging a victim to come forward after she was allegedly threatened and assaulted by a stranger with a lighter at Metropolis at Metrotown on December 23, 2023.

The suspect allegedly approached the female victim inside the mall around 5 p.m with a BBQ-style lighter, made a verbal threat, and sparked the lighter near the woman’s head.

The victim left the area and has not yet come forward to police.

Burnaby RCMP investigators would like to speak with the victim, who is described as an Asian woman in her 40’s or 50’s with medium length hair.

She was wearing:

* Distinct patterned pants
* Yellow T-shirt
* Beige vest
* Grey sneakers

“While the victim was not physically injured, we would like to encourage her to come forward and speak with our investigators,” said Cpl. Laura Hirst. “We would also like to let all victims know there are available supports we can offer when they are impacted by crime.”

The suspect was arrested nearby shortly after the incident. The investigation is ongoing.