SHORTLY after 4 p.m. on June 14, Richmond RCMP responded to an attempted robbery in the 6000-block of No. 3 Road. A 52-year old woman from Richmond was returning to her parked vehicle after visiting a currency exchange business when she was approached by a male who sprayed her several times with a substance believed to be pepper spray.

The suspect unsuccessfully tried to steal her purse and then fled. The victim was treated for exposure to pepper spray in addition to other non-life-threatening injuries sustained during the struggle.

“Our General Investigation Section is very active in this case. The time and location of this incident suggests that many people would have seen or heard something,” said Cpl. Dennis Hwang. “We credit the woman for making as much noise to draw help and attention to her.”

He said: “Additionally, we ask drivers in the area to review their dashcam footage around the No. 3 Road and Saba Road area. That footage could prove instrumental in identifying the suspect.”

The suspect is described as:

·         Asian male

·         Slim build

·         Wearing a dark gray hoodie, sunglasses, baseball cap, and a black duffel bag across his shoulder

The Richmond RCMP would like to remind anyone carrying around large sums of cash to be extremely cognizant of their surroundings, to travel with a companion, and to use well-populated paths as opposed to side streets.

Anyone with information on this case or the suspect is asked to contact Constable J. Kunnamkudath of the Richmond RCMP General Investigation Section at 604-278-1212 or email police at Richmond_Tips@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. Quote file# 2019-19311.

Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact CrimeStoppers by phone at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).