Barrie police are still searching for a the suspect involved in a serious assault in Barrie’s southwest end and need the public’s help finding him.
Police released a composite sketch of the man suspected in the assault that occurred on Nov. 9 just before 3 p.m., in a wooded area near Bear Creek Secondary School.
Police also confirmed Thursday that the attack was sexual in nature.
Barrie police Const. Sarah Bamford told BarrieToday that the sketch was provided by the victim.
While the incident is rare, people should always consider safe practices when out, she advised.
“We believe this to be an isolated incident,” said Bamford. “In saying that, we are reminding the public to be aware of their personal safety and to avoid secluded and poorly lit areas.
"As always, we are reminding students to use the buddy system when traveling to and from school.”
Bamford said people should be particularly wary of secluded areas.
“Secluded areas linked to walking paths and/or catwalks such as this one are known to have pedestrian traffic, as it is a gateway to neighbouring subdivisions, and they are also utilized as running/walking trails,” said Bamford.
“At this time, we have not found any evidence of anyone living in this particular wooded area," she added.
Kim Rafter lived in the area of the attack for 11 years and in the general area for 16 years. The mother of three has kids who attend schools nearby where the incident happened and says she's not fearful to live where they are.
“I like that it is a generally safe area that you don’t hear about attacks happening back in the trails,” said Rafter. “My kids have never had issues with their friends that use the trails as short cuts to either Bear Creek or up Mapleton Avenue for those who go to Joan of Arc high school.”
Police have also established a dedicated tip line and anyone with information is strongly encouraged to contact the Barrie Police Service at 705-725-0501.
