Police investigate after teen approached by man in truck

Police say a teenager took the appropriate actions when she was allegedly approached by a suspicious man in Kelowna.

Mounties say the girl was walking between Bernard and Doyle Avenues around 1:00 p.m. Monday (Feb. 14) when a man driving a truck pulled over and asked her what she was doing. The teen kept walking and the man followed her a short distance until she yelled at him to leave her alone, when the truck drove away.

The man is described as white, 25-30-years old with brown hair and a brown beard. The truck is described as a newer model white Dodge Ram with a black grill and the word “RAM” in black on the grill.

“The teen did the right thing by not stopping, yelling at the man, and telling her family so it could be reported to police,” said Cpl. Tammy Lobb, media relations officer. “Patrols were made in the area for the vehicle and suspect but they were not located”.

The investigation into this incident continues.

The Kelowna RCMP is asking parents and caregivers to talk to children and youth about how to stay safe. The concept of a “stranger” can be difficult for some children to understand, so police suggest the following safety habits to keep your kids safe:

• teach children not to go anywhere with anyone without first getting permission from a parent or guardian
• teach children to always have a buddy with them
• practice scenarios with your child. Ask them what they should do if someone approaches them, asks for help, says their parent sent them
• discuss what to do if your child becomes lost or separated from a parent while out in public
• encourage your child to tell a parent or trusted adult if someone approaches them, or if a situation makes them uncomfortable
• teach your child to trust their instincts and the importance of paying attention to their surroundings
• discuss what to do if someone tries to take them somewhere – shouting “NO!”, kicking
• teach your older child how to stay safe when home alone

Police ask the public to report any suspicious people or activity to the Kelowna RCMP at (250) 762-3300. To remain completely anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or leave a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net