Suspect released after brutal sexual assault in downtown Victoria

Victoria Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect who sexually assaulted a woman in downtown Victoria last week.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, July 19.

At around 2:30 a.m., a woman was approached by an unknown man at the intersection of Wharf Street and Johnson Street.

The suspect then took them to a green area at Wharf Street and Pandora Avenue, near the statue with the large tulips known as the “Commerce Canoe.”

According to VicPD, the woman was threatened and then physically and sexually assaulted. After the attack, the victim ran toward a group of people nearby and the suspect fled the area.

Police conducted an extensive search for the suspect but were unable to find him.

VicPD investigators are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. They are also looking for cellphone, dashcam and CCTV footage.

“Given the violence of this sexual assault, officers are concerned about public safety,” VicPD said in a statement.

Anyone with information is asked to contact VicPD at 250-995-7654 or report anonymously to Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).