A concerning situation unfolded at Pineridge Elementary School on Nov. 16, when a student reported they had been approached by a stranger on their walk to school.
According to a message sent out to parents by School District 52 (SD52), all the children are safe, but an RCMP investigation into the matter is ongoing.
One parent said there were three RCMP cars around the school this morning at around 9:19 a.m.
An email from SD 52 to parents said there is no immediate risk to the students, though would not elaborate.
“Earlier today, a student from Pineridge Elementary School informed the staff they were approached by a stranger while walking to school. School officials promptly informed the RCMP based on the student’s account.
The RCMP is actively investigating the incident that took place near the school premises. Kindly advise your child(ren) to avoid conversations with strangers and promptly report any suspicious activity to a trusted adult,” the email stated.
The RCMP could not confirm nor deny whether the reported incident occurred, according to Const. Brody Hemrich, media relations officer for the Prince Rupert RCMP.
“We got a call regarding a man getting out of his car and or asking a child if he wants candy. We’re still investigating it,” Hemrich said on Nov. 16. “We’re just making sure that the report is legitimate, but it’s an ongoing investigation.”