Nanaimo RCMP are investigating an attempted home invasion.
The incident happened at about 9 p.m. Wednesday at a residence on Summit Drive when the 52-year-old homeowner answered a knock on his front door and was pepper-sprayed in the face by a man trying to force his way into the house.
The homeowner shoved back against the front door and the suspect fled.
Police responded with a tracking dog but were unable to establish a track.
The victim was treated at his home by paramedics and did not require hospitalization.
The suspect is described as being in his mid 20s, with a stocky build, short, dark hair and a wispy mustache. He is possibly of First Nations or Latin descent.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.nanaimocrimestoppers.com.