A woman was left with visible facial injuries after she was mugged in broad daylight on a West Shore trail Wednesday morning.
A concerned citizen called police just after 8 a.m. after encountering the victim on the West Shore Walkway in the 1700-block of Island Highway, near the border of View Royal and Colwood.
The victim, said to be in her 30s, reported she was roughed up and robbed while walking on the trail.
“Obviously she’s been very shaken up, she was transported to hospital where she was treated for her injuries that are deemed non-life threatening at this point,” said West Shore RCMP spokesman Const. Alex Berube.
Officers including a canine unit and the officer in charge of the West Shore detachment responded, and police dog Dash was able to track down her stolen purse.
Police say the attack was not sexual in nature and the attacker is still at large.
“At this point we do not have a suspect in custody. We’re still working with the victim as to getting a description of the suspect and exactly what led to the incident,” Berube said.
He said the attack serves as a reminder that whether it’s day or night, people using the trails should always remain vigilant.
“We just keep reiterating the same message just to be aware of your surroundings when you’re walking on trails. If you can do it, do it in pairs,” said Berube.
People who use the trails daily said they were surprised to hear of the early morning attack.
“It was pretty shocking, actually. I usually feel pretty safe around here but I guess you never know,” said Tom Lupu.
Anyone with information is asked to call RCMP at 250-474-2264 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
