Surrey RCMP are investigating two separate and unrelated cases: one involving an assault on a pregnant woman, and another involving racist comments made toward a child.

Pregnant woman assaulted

Surrey RCMP provided an update today (April 13) on a previously reported investigation into an assault in Whalley on March 23, in which a pregnant woman was pushed to the ground.

The incident appeared to have been unprovoked.

With the help of tips from the public (which brought forward additional witnesses), investigators identified a male suspect and Langley RCMP arrested 49-year-old Roger Evanson of no fixed address in Langley on April 10.

Evanson has been charged with one count of assault and has been remanded to custody.

Surrey RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Elenore Sturko thanked the public and media for helping to advance this investigation.

Racist incident

In a separate case, Surrey RCMP also announced today that an investigation is underway into a “disturbing incident” in which alleged racial comments were made toward a child in Newton.

Surrey RCMP stated that a family was at a grocery store in the 7500 block of King George Boulevard in Surrey on April 11.

An unknown man approached the family and allegedly made racist comments toward a nine-year-old member of the family.

Investigators identified the suspect, who is known to police, and are continuing to collect evidence, including speaking with witnesses and gathering video footage.

“This incident was understandably upsetting for the child and their family and we have engaged Victim Services,” Surrey RCMP Supt. Manly Burleigh stated in a news release. “Comments like the ones directed at this child are reprehensible, unacceptable, and will not be tolerated in our community.”

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502, or Crime Stoppers, io remain anonymous, at 1-800-222-8477.