'Troubling incident': Photo of suspect who allegedly tried luring 11-year-old Vancouver girl released

Police are hoping someone recognizes the suspect who allegedly tried to lure an 11-year-old girl in East Vancouver.

The incident happened on Sunday, May 5 near Grays Park at E 33rd Avenue and St. Catharines Street, according to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD).

The girl was walking home from the park around 6:40 p.m. when a man on a bike allegedly called from across the street, asking for the girl to come with him, according to the VPD.

The girl walked away from the man, but he pursued her.

Eventually, she walked into the south lane of E 33rd and waved down a passing driver, who drove her home.

"This child did everything right," says Sgt. Steve Addison in a press release. "She sensed she was in danger, she quickly sought help, and she got to a place of safety."

He notes that police were quickly called and officers were able to collect evidence.

"Although we're still very early in this investigation, we are releasing this information now to inform the community that this troubling incident took place," says Addison.

"We've obtained images of the suspect and are asking anyone who recognizes him to call our investigators immediately."

Police are also increasing patrols in the neighbourhood.

The suspect is described as "a tall Caucasian man in his 30s with bushy eyebrows, a deep voice, and pronounced facial features — high cheekbones, a wide jaw, a big nose and ears, and darkness under his eyes."

At the time of the incident, he was wearing a dark-coloured hoodie, a long-sleeved, plaid flannel shirt, dark jeans, and black Doc Marten-style shoes. He was carrying a dark backpack and had a blue Trek mountain bike, according to police.

Anyone with information is asked to call the VPD at 604-717-0604.