Image Credit: CFJC Today

By James Peters

Suspicious Vehicle

RCMP warn Barnhartvale residents after white van follows school children

Feb 25, 2021 | 12:43 PM

KAMLOOPS — RCMP are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspicious vehicle that was spotted near a school in Barnhartvale.

According to Cst. Crystal Evelyn, Kamloops RCMP were alerted to a vehicle following two children just before 4:00 p.m. Wednesday (Feb. 24) in the area of Meadowland Crescent. The van is alleged to have circled the block five times. At one point, the driver allegedly stopped and stared at the children, driving away when one of them took out their phone.

Suspect description:

• Male
• In his 30s
• Mohawk haircut
• Wearing sunglasses
• Driving white, Dodge Caravan-style van

Residents in the Meadowland Crescent area are asked to check their home surveillance cameras or dashcams to see if they captured a white van.

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“If you know who was driving the van, or if you were the driver of the van, it’s very important to contact police so we can further this investigation and find out what is going on,” said Evelyn. Anyone with information is asked to contact Kamloops RCMP at (250) 828-3000 and refer to file number 2021-5859.

Evelyn also asks that parents review street safety tips with their children.

These tips were distributed by Kamloops RCMP:

Everyday Basics:

• Know your home address and landline phone number
• Know how to contact your parents on their cell phones or at work
• Know how and when to call 9-1-1 in an emergency from a phone
• Establish a code word for your family. This should be used in emergencies to identify a ‘safe person’ other than their parent or caregiver
• Play what if games with younger children to reinforce these safety messages

In the Community:

• Children and teens should play and walk to places with a buddy. If they become separated or lost, they should tell someone with a nametag (for e.g. a cashier or security guard) immediately
• Avoid conversations with strangers. If someone you do not know asks you personal questions, such as: where do you live, do not answer. Run away or leave the situation immediately
• It’s okay to say NO to adults who ask you to do something for them, such as: help them find a lost pet, join them in an activity or game, or give them directions
• Never walk with or accept a ride, money or gifts from strangers or even someone you may know, without checking with your parents. Keep a safe distance (two arm lengths) from strangers and cars that approach you
• If a person tries to grab you – scream loudly, make a lot of noise, and try to create a disturbance (e.g. knock things over, scatter belongings, kick wildly). Shout, “Help, this person is not my parent!” Run to a safe location like an open store
• If a vehicle is involved, try to take get the license plate and a description of the stranger(s) and vehicle(s). Call 9-1-1 for help.
• If you are taking a public bus, always sit near the bus driver
• Reduce the use of headphones or use of electronic devices that can distract you from your surroundings when you are walking