A man is facing multiple charges following a Nanaimo RCMP investigation into an attempted kidnapping incident last week.
Bradley Dylan Boscariol allegedly assaulted a woman and attempted to force her into his vehicle around 7 p.m. on March 24, according to an RCMP media release. He is currently in police custody.
The victim told investigators she was walking along Dickinson Road in Lantzville after getting off a bus when she noticed a vehicle making strange turns.
Seconds later, the vehicle approached and an unknown man got out and asked her for directions. While looking them up on her phone, he swung a blunt object at her, striking her in the head. The woman fought back, ran to the closest home and had the occupants call 911. The suspect followed her on foot for a short distance, then got back in his vehicle and drove northbound on Dickinson Crossing.
The woman went to Nanaimo Regional General Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries, according to police.
“This incident outraged the community and our officers as well. The investigators were highly motivated to ensure justice was promptly carried out and that the person responsible was found and held accountable,” said Const. Gary O’Brien.
Investigators quickly focused in on the suspect vehicle and its location, according to the release. With the cooperation of the Ladysmith RCMP, Boscariol was arrested in the suspect vehicle and taken into police custody around 6 p.m. on March 25.
On March 26 police carried out search warrants at a residence and the vehicle associated to the accused.
“Our investigators would also like extend their sincerest appreciation to the general public for their cooperation and assistance with this file, and to the very courageous and tough young lady who stood strong when faced with real adversity. In our books, she’s a rock star,” said O’Brien.
Just prior to the attack, the woman told police she recalls seeing a black SUV with three male occupants drive slowly past her. When last seen, this vehicle had turned right from Dickinson Road onto Schook Road. Police are also hoping to track down the woman’s brown leather backpack, which was lost during the attack.
Police ask anyone with information on the SUV or backpack, to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 and quote file #2022-9074.
