WARNING: This article contains details of sexual assault and may affect those who have experienced sexual violence or know someone affected by it.
RCMP in Mayo, Yukon say they are still searching for a suspect after a woman intentionally drove her car into a light pole to escape from a man she said had sexually assaulted her earlier in the evening.
In a news release, police say the man knocked on the door of the woman’s home, then allegedly forced his way inside and assaulted her. He then demanded she drive him to Whitehorse.
“The female drove purposefully into a light pole, the male continued to assault the female and forcibly prevented her from getting out of the vehicle. The female was able to exit the vehicle and yelled for assistance, while the perpetrator fled,” reads the release.
RCMP said the man was not known to the woman. Police are working to identify him.
“Police in the territory conducted extensive patrols for the perpetrator and did not locate him,” reads the release.
“We encourage the public to stay alert and invite anyone with information regarding this crime or other crimes to come forward.”
Support is available for anyone who has been sexually assaulted. You can access crisis lines and local support services through this Government of Canada website or the Ending Violence Association of Canada database. If you’re in immediate danger or fear for your safety or that of others around you, please call 911.
In the Yukon, the Sexualized Assault Response Team (SART) provides safe and confidential services and is available to anyone who has experienced sexualized assault. They can be reached 24/7 at 1-844-967-7275.
Yukon Victim Services also provides services and help for victims of sexualized assault and other crimes.