Vancouver – Vancouver Police have released video of another unprovoked stranger attack, which sent a 25-year-old man to hospital Saturday with life-threatening stab wounds.
“This disturbing incident has all the hallmarks of a random attack that came completely without warning, and we’re increasingly worried about the public’s safety,” says Sergeant Steve Addison. “We need anyone who witnessed this assault to come forward, and we urge anyone who recognizes the suspect to call police.”
Saturday’s attack occurred around 6:20 a.m. inside the Tim Hortons at Harbour Centre, near Seymour and West Hastings Street. The victim, a newcomer to Canada, was waiting in line when the suspect approached from behind and repeatedly stabbed him in the back and shoulder before running out of the store.
The victim suffered serious and life-threatening injuries, but was taken to hospital for treatment and is now expected to survive.
“We don’t know if there was a motive for this attack, and the fact that it appears random and unprovoked is extremely concerning,” says Sergeant Addison, adding the victim and suspect did not know each other and did not appear to have any significant interactions before the attack.
The suspect is a man in his 20s, about 6’2″, with short black hair and a slim build. He was wearing a grey hoodie that had a black hood and sleeves, grey and black stone-washed jeans, and black running shoes with white soles. The suspect also had a black and white facemask with a Crooks and Castles logo, and a black and grey backpack.
Saturday’s stabbing occurred just three days after VPD released security video showing the unprovoked attack on a 22-year-old woman outside Hotel Georgia on New Year’s Eve – an incident that re-ignited conversation about public safety in the downtown core in light of data that shows, on average, more than four people a day are victimized in unprovoked stranger assaults.
“We recognize these incidents cause significant anxiety and trepidation in the community,” adds Sergeant Addison. “However, it’s important that we talk about them so we can solve these crimes and people can make informed decisions about their personal safety.”
VPD’s Major Crime Section is leading the investigation related to Saturday’s stabbing. Anyone with information is asked to call 604-717-2541.