A 30-year-old Airdrie man faces six sexual assault charges after police linked incidents in Airdrie and Calgary to the same suspect. Shawn Thompson was arrested in Airdrie on Thursday, released from custody and scheduled to appear in court there on Oct. 1.

Airdrie RCMP began investigating a series of assaults on Tuesday. The incidents in Airdrie took place at the Walmart on Main Street on Aug. 12 and 29, and at the No Frills on Yankee Valley Road on Sept. 17. Police say female victims had their buttocks grabbed by a male in each of the three incidents.

The suspect said nothing during the first two incidents and left Walmart. At No Frills, two victims were sexually assaulted. RCMP said the second victim confronted the suspect, who did not respond before leaving the store.

While investigating in Airdrie, RCMP learned Calgary police were looking into two similar incidents. Investigators from both agencies reviewed CCTV footage and determined one suspect was responsible for all six offences. “Investigators identified consistent physical characteristics and clothing, and the repeated use of a red SUV throughout the occurrences,” Airdrie RCMP said in a release.

Thompson faces four counts connected to the Airdrie investigations and two related to Calgary. Airdrie RCMP believe there may be additional victims who have not contacted police and are urging them to call the non-emergency line at 403-945-7200. There is no time limit in Canada for reporting a sexual assault.

People affected by sexual assault or trauma who are struggling can seek support through resources available to those in crisis.

Based on reporting by CTV News Calgary.