Police are searching for a suspect following two violent attacks against women in the Oakridge neighbourhood.
On Jan. 23, a young woman leaving the Langara Canada Line Station was approached from behind by a stranger near West 48th Avenue and Manitoba Street.
The 23-year-old was knocked to the ground and hit in the face, but her assailant ran away when she began screaming.
The second incident happened on Feb. 4, when a 67-year-old woman out for a walk near Columbia Park at West 42nd Avenue noticed a man hiding behind a tree.
A moment later the man walked up and punched her in the face and head, say VPD. He ran away towards Oakridge Mall when she screamed.
Vancouver Police say the descriptions of the attackers are similar: a white man in his 30s or 40s with a slim build and balding with short hair.
Police say they have spoken to witnesses and canvassed the neighbourhood for evidence but have come up emptyhanded. They’re asking the public to come forward with any information.
“The reason for the attacks is not considered at this time to be sexually motivated,” a spokesperson said in a statement issued to media.
“Investigators believe these were possible robbery attempts. Police have not been able to confirm if the attacks are linked in any way, or if the same person is responsible.”
Anyone with information is asked to call (604) 717-0601 or Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 222-8477.
