Richmond RCMP urge witnesses to safely observe and report crime

Richmond RCMP are encouraging community members who witness a crime to remember that their observations can help police identify suspects, locate vehicles and advance investigations.

Public safety remains the priority, police said. Witnesses can assist by observing an incident from a safe distance and noting details that may later be useful evidence.

In a safety video, police advise witnesses to note suspects’ appearance, what they are driving, clothing colours, shoes, sweaters and identifying logos. They should also watch for items that could be used as weapons, and physical details such as estimated age, height, skin tone, hair, glasses, piercings, tattoos and scars.

When a vehicle is involved, police recommend noting its colour, make and body style, such as sedan, truck or SUV, as well as features including rims and bumper stickers. If it is safe, witnesses can use a phone to record the scene or photograph a licence plate and should note the direction the vehicle travels.

Police advise witnesses to enter the time and their observations in a notes app before officers arrive, while details are still fresh.