‘Rideshare’ driver wanted in alleged sexual assault in Brampton

Police are on the lookout for a suspect connected to an alleged sexual assault of an 18-year-old who accepted a ride from a man claiming to be a rideshare driver.

Peel Regional Police say the incident took place on Nov. 8, shortly before 8 a.m., while a woman was waiting at a bus stop at Goreridge Crescent and Via Romano Way.

An unknown man in a vehicle approached the woman, presenting himself as a “rideshare” driver and offering her a ride for a cash payment.

The suspect reportedly drove the woman to an area near the Clareville Conservation on Highway 50 and Gore Road, where the assault is alleged to have taken place.

Investigators describe the suspect as a South Asian man between 20 and 25 years old. He has a medium complexion, a well-kept full black beard and faded black hair.

He is described as having a medium to muscular build and was wearing a blue or black winter jacket and black pants. The vehicle involved is described as a dark-coloured, four-door sedan.

It is unclear at this time if the suspect was an official rideshare driver or was posing as one to gain the victim’s trust.

The Special Victims Unit is asking anyone with information, particularly dashcam footage from Highway 50 between Steeles Avenue and Cottrelle Boulevard and from Steeles Avenue East between Highway 50 and Goreway Drive, recorded between 7:40 a.m. and 9:10 a.m., to contact investigators at 905-453-2121, ext. 3460.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.peelcrimestoppers.ca.