Smithers, B.C. – A Smithers man is facing sexual assault and other charges following an attack on a woman last Monday.

On July 7th at 3:19 pm, Smithers RCMP received a report of possible assault in progress behind the Smithers library on Alfred Ave.  Responding officers found a male sexually assaulting a female and arrested a suspect.   The 59 year old female victim, who had a laceration to her head, was almost unconscious and was taken to hospital by EHS.  She was released from hospital later that day with minor injuries.

Police say there were numerous people in the area who had witnessed the incident. 39 year old Randy Edward Patrick is facing charges of sexual assault and indecent act, and remains in custody pending his next court appearance.

Police say the people involved in the assault knew each other and this is considered an isolated incident.