Richmond RCMP urges witnesses to safely observe and report crime

Richmond RCMP is urging 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, and witnesses are asked to observe from a safe distance while noting details that may become evidence.

In an instructional video, police advise witnesses to note a suspect’s appearance and vehicle, including clothing colours, shoes, sweaters, logos and anything that could be used as a weapon. Useful physical details can include estimated age, height, skin tone, hair, glasses, piercings, tattoos and scars.

When a vehicle is involved, witnesses can record its colour, make, body style, such as a sedan, truck or SUV, and features including rims or bumper stickers. If it is safe, they can photograph the licence plate, record the scene and note the direction of travel.

Police also advise entering the time and observations into a phone’s notes app before officers arrive, while details remain fresh.