RCMP looking for witnesses after truck owner hit with bear spray

Comox Valley RCMP are looking for witnesses to an assault in Courtenay involving what appears to be bear spray.

The incident began when the victim noticed a man inside his truck about 8:30 p.m. Tuesday. He confronted the man, who got out and demanded the truck’s keys.

The owner did not comply and started to chase the man, who sprayed him before running away. He was last seen running toward Embleton Crescent.

Police believe someone in the area might have seen the man fleeing.

“It was still light out so there were likely people out enjoying the nice weather and cars driving through the area,” said Comox Valley RCMP Const. Monika Terragni.

The suspect is described as white and about five-foot-11 with a medium build. He was wearing all black and had a black backpack.

Police ask anyone with information, dashcam footage or surveillance footage to call Comox Valley RCMP at 250-338-1321 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Information can also be given at comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca.