Elderly woman attacked in home invasion
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Updated: November 08, 2009 10:52 AM
Police this week issued a warning to Oceanside residents to lock their doors at night after an elderly Qualicum Beach woman was assaulted in her home early Friday morning.
Corporal Darren Lagan said police responded to a 9-1-1 call at 12:49 a.m. from a 78-year-old woman, who said she had been awakened to find an unknown man in the bedroom of her Memorial Avenue home.
The man physically assaulted the woman, prior to making his escape. She did not sustain any physical injuries.
Lagan noted an investigation showed the man had gained access to the home through an unlocked sliding door.
An RCMP tracking dog was rushed to the scene, but was unable to locate a track.
The suspect in the attack is described as an 18 to 28-year-old Caucasian male, approximately five feet, eight inches tall and about 170 pounds. He was wearing a dark jacket with a maroon-coloured toque.
“This traumatic incident highlights the need for everyone to secure their homes,” Lagan, of the Island District RCMP, said. “Lock your doors and windows, and consider leaving a patio light on or installing motion sensor lights. If you care for someone, perhaps an elderly parent or friend, please take some extra time to ensure they are securing their homes.”
Lagan noted this was the third home invasion with an assault on Vancouver Island since July 4, with attacks in Duncan, Ladysmith and now Qualicum Beach.
He stressed all investigations remain very active, with investigators from all three jurisdictions, with the assistance of the Island District General Investigation Section, working together to ensure that any similarities or connections in the cases are identified.
Anyone with information about this incident is requested to contact the Oceanside RCMP at 250-248-6111.
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