Girl grabbed by stranger in woods in Vaughan, police say

York Regional Police say they are looking for information about a suspect and a vehicle after a girl was grabbed by stranger in a park in Vaughan. (Handout /YRP)

York Regional Police say they are looking for information about a suspect and a vehicle after a girl was grabbed by stranger in a park in Vaughan last week.

Officers responded to a report about an assault near Tami Court, in the area of Bathurst Street and Teston Toad, around 5:30 p.m. on April 22.

According to police, a girl was walking on a forested pathway connecting Lady Nadia Drive and Rivermill Crescent when she was grabbed and picked up from behind by an unknown male.

The girl was able to break free and call police and she was not physically injured, police said.

The suspect fled north toward Lady Nadia Drive.

He is described as a man between the ages of 30 and 40 who was wearing a dark blue shirt, a grey and blue jacket, running shoes and a black medical mask.

In a news release Tuesday, police thanked the public for their help so far and said they are still looking for any further information that could help identify the suspect.

They are also looking for information about a vehicle last seen travelling east on Lady Dolores Avenue before turning north on Bathurst Street. It is believed to be a dark-coloured 2021 to 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLA SUV.

“Any witnesses who have not yet spoken with police, and anyone who may have dashcam or surveillance footage from the area around the time of the incident, is asked to contact police,” YRP said in their release.

They also issued a warning to the public to remain “vigilant and aware of your surroundings” at all times.

“Trust your instincts and if something feels off, leave the area. Be sure to carry a fully charged phone and let someone know where you are going and the time you are expected to return,” police said.

YRP are asking anyone with information to contact the #4 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7441 or to call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS or visit www.1800222tips.com.