Red Deer RCMP are looking for public assistance to identify a suspect who was caught on camera writing a hate message in the snow outside the Red Deer Islamic Center on Sunday morning.

RCMP responded to the report of an alleged hate crime at the Red Deer Islamic Center on Douglas Avenue at 7:30 a.m. on Feb. 19th, and have determined that a single male suspect approached the stairs to the center and wrote a hateful message in the snow, signing it “E.K.”

No damage was done to the building itself. The suspect can be seen on camera approaching and departing from the north.

Red Deer RCMP are actively investigating this incident and are releasing a photo of the suspect male with the hope that someone will be able to identify him.

Public incitement of hatred is defined as everyone who, by communicating statements, promotes hatred against any identifiable groups. The act at the Red Deer Islamic Center is considered a Hate Crime – Mischief to Religious Property under the Criminal Code of Canada, and it is taken very seriously by Red Deer RCMP.

The male suspect is described as wearing a hoodie and ball cap under a jacket (possibly Carhartt brand), light coloured pants and dark running shoes.

If anyone has information about this investigation or if someone recognizes this male, contact the Red Deer RCMP at 403-343-5575.

Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or report it online at www.tipsubmit.com.

– Fawcett