Sex predator active in Vancouver park: police

The Vancouver Police Department is advising women to watch out for a sexual predator who may be active in the city's Queen Elizabeth Park area.

The warning follows several reported sexual offences involving an unknown male targeting women, police said.

These incidents happened in the area east of Queen Elizabeth Park around midnight on May 20, June 2, and 3. The first assault was released to the press on May 21.

The women were all walking alone when they were approached by a stranger. The man exposed himself and, on two of the three occasions, grabbed the women.

The suspect was described as wearing a "hoodie" that concealed most of his face.

Members of the community are asked to be cautious when walking late at night and to be aware of their surroundings. Any suspicious activity should be reported to 911 as soon as possible.

"People should always be aware of their personal safety - have a plan - be aware of their surroundings - know what to do so that you don't have to react to a situation,'' said Const. Tim Fanning of the Vancouver Police Department.

"In all of these situations, the women screamed - they drew attention to themselves - and they scared the suspect off - they did the right thing,'' he said.

Anyone with information about these or any similar incidents in the Queen Elizabeth/Riley Park area is asked to contact The Vancouver Police Department Sex Crimes Unit Tip Line at [phone].