The Kamloops RCMP Detachment is asking for the public’s help following a suspicious incident involving a youth in downtown Kamloops over the weekend.

According to police, the incident occurred on Feb. 15 at approximately 2:20 p.m. in the 700-block of Victoria Street. A youth reported being approached by a man driving a black Dodge pickup truck who offered them a ride.

The youth declined the offer, entered a nearby business and contacted a trusted adult. Police say no physical contact occurred.

“No licence plate was observed, but the truck did have a scratch on the back like it had been keyed,” said Cpl. Dana Napier, spokesperson for the Kamloops RCMP. “The man was described as Indigenous with a grey beard with black hair and eventually drove to a parking lot in the 450-block of Lansdowne Street.”

Investigators are working to identify both the driver and the vehicle involved.

Police are reminding parents and guardians to review personal safety strategies with children and youth, including being aware of their surroundings, feeling confident saying no to strangers, and planning ahead for what to do if approached by someone they do not know.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has surveillance or dash camera footage from the area around the time of the occurrence is asked to contact the Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000 and reference file number 2026-4784. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

For additional personal safety information, residents can visit the “Street Proofing” section of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police website.