Grindr is being used to lure victims to assault by young people, RCMP warn

North Vancouver police are investigating a series of assaults that appear to be connected, all allegedly involving victims who met up with strangers through the dating app Grindr. On August 27 and 31, two separate incidents occurred where victims reported communicating with someone through Grindr before meeting up in person. Upon arrival, they were confronted by groups of young people and either assaulted or threatened.

In both cases, the victims' vehicles were damaged as well. Police have also found a third potential assault that occurred on August 29 near Ross Road Elementary School, though the victim has not yet reported it to authorities.

Const. Paul Reece of the North Vancouver RCMP expressed concern over the incidents and is urging anyone with information or video footage to come forward. The incidents have prompted the North Shore Pride Alliance to issue a statement, emphasizing that the victims are not to blame and deserve safety, dignity, and support. The North Vancouver RCMP's Serious Crimes Unit is conducting an extensive review of CCTV footage from the areas where the assaults took place.

They are asking anyone who may have relevant footage or witnessed suspicious activity to contact investigators, quoting file numbers #26-18057, #26-18481, and #26-20739. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).