Barrie police are searching for the driver of a blue F150 pickup truck who allegedly made inappropriate comments to three young girls who were on their way to Ardagh Bluffs Public School in the city's south end.
Around 8:30 Tuesday morning, police say the unknown male approached the girls and began to ask questions that were inappropriate.
"The girls, who became uncomfortable, ran towards their bus stop, and the man walked away from them to a nearby plaza where he had parked his truck," police said in a news release on Thursday.
Investigators were able to obtain surveillance video from a nearby business that shows the male and the truck.
The man is described as being white, 30-40 years old, with a short black beard, medium-length hair, wearing all-black clothing, and a baseball-style hat.
The pickup is also described as having a light brown coloured lower trim package, chrome rims, chrome sideview mirrors, and a trailer hitch with what could be an upside-down ball.
Police are commending the girls for not only reporting the incident to their parents and school officials, but their ability to recall specific details that they were able to share with investigators.
"If any member of the public recognizes the person involved, his pickup truck, or has dash camera video, you are asked to contact the Barrie Police Service at 705-725-7025 or email the investigating officer at dhennessy@barriepolice.ca," police added in the news release.
Police strongly encourage parents to discuss and remind their children what to do if they ever encounter a stranger.
"By reviewing safety plans for your child, and using this incident as an example, you will be able to reinforce that no one should ever speak to a stranger and, if they do, what needs to be done to ensure their safety," police said.
