Bradley Michael Muscat, 20, was arrested Thursday morning in Surrey as the primary suspect in a sexual assault that occurred on the Galloping Goose trail at 2 a.m. on June 26.

West Shore RCMP received a break in the case three days prior, but were unable to give any specific details.

Officers from the major crime unit travelled to the mainland on Thursday, and with the assistance of the Surrey RCMP arrested Muscat without incident at 9:50 a.m. on King George Boulevard.

Muscat is facing charges of sexual assault with a weapon, robbery and forcible confinement, all in relation to the June 26 attack. He was scheduled to appear in court in Surrey on Friday (Oct. 3).

RCMP confirmed that Muscat is known to police, and that he is currently a resident of Surrey. RCMP could not confirm whether Muscat was living in the Langford area at the time of the attack.

RCMP did not release any further details about the victim - a woman in her early 20s - out of respect for her privacy.

"She needs to be able to move forward now and heal," said West Shore's Cpl. Kathy Rochlitz.

West Shore RCMP have been in contact with the victim throughout the entire investigation. "She's been very strong and supportive of our investigative efforts," said Cpl. Kathy Rochlitz. "It brings police officers a great sense of relief being able to provide this information to the victim."

Muscat may also be required to make an appearance in the Western Communities courts at a further date.

Rochlitz said RCMP don't believe there is any connection between the sexual assault and the recent stabbing that also occurred on the Galloping Goose, and added that the trail is "a very safe transportation route."

acowan@goldstreamgazette.com