Comox Valley RCMP Investigate Suspicious Incident In Courtenay

The Comox Valley RCMP is looking to identify a man who reportedly approached a student while dressed as a clown in Courtenay on Thursday.

Police received a report that at approximately 2:35 p.m., a student was walking home from school along 16th Street, between Grieve Avenue and McPhee Avenue, when she was approached by a man offering her a ride and candy.

The man was described as tall, with shaggy brown hair that hung around his face—possibly with bright green streaks near the top or center.

He had blue eyes, a slight belly, and was wearing black shoes, brightly coloured clothing, a black clown nose, and had his face painted with light white makeup.

Constable Monika Terragni says the suspect would have likely stood out in any setting. She says even if you saw someone matching this description outside of the immediate area where the incident occurred—before or after—it could still be relevant to their investigation.

“Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any information, including his identity or surveillance footage,” Terragni said.

In a release, RCMP said officers attended the area immediately, conducting neighbourhood inquiries and canvassing for witnesses or surveillance footage.

They say it's a good reminder to have age-appropriate conversations with children about personal safety and being cautious around strangers.

Constable Terragni says conversations like these don’t have to be scary—they’re about empowering kids to trust their instincts and know what to do.

Anyone with information, surveillance video, cellphone footage, or dashcam recordings is asked to contact the Comox Valley RCMP at (250) 338-1321.

To remain anonymous, contact Comox Valley Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).