NORTH Vancouver RCMP are seeking public assistance to identity a suspect involved in an attempted robbery of an elderly person at Victoria Park on January 24 just after 1 pm.

An elderly woman had planned to meet with someone from Facebook Marketplace to sell her phone. They met at Victoria Park located at 150 East Keith Road. During the exchange, the suspect pepper-sprayed the victim and attempted to take her phone. However, he was unsuccessful and fled west from the park.

Officers immediately flooded the area in an effort to locate the suspect, but were unsuccessful. The victim has recovered and did not incur any serious injuries.

RCMP are now appealing to the public for help in order to further the investigation.

The suspect is described as:

* White male

* 22-25 years old
* Clean-shaven
* Approximately 160 lbs
* Slim build
* Narrow nose
* Wearing long, yellow-hooded rain jacket
* Shouldering a black backpack
* Black pants
* Black sneakers with red and white coloring
“If anyone is making an in-person transaction via Facebook Marketplace or other online services, the North Vancouver RCMP encourage them to make their exchanges at a safe zone outside the detachment located at 147 East 14th Street, North Vancouver,” said Constable Mansoor Sahak on Monday. “It’s a much safer place.”