Man arrested after "multiple" assaults at popular Vancouver park

A man has been arrested and charged following “multiple, random” assaults in Vancouver’s Queen Elizabeth Park over the weekend.

According to VPD, police were dispatched to the park on Sunday after 911 calls from multiple witnesses.

“Investigators believe the suspect approached multiple people near Cambie Street and West 30th Avenue,” said VPD Sgt. Aaron Roed. “He assaulted, threatened, and attempted to rob multiple victims” who ranged in age.

The man was taken into custody by responding officers and transported to hospital, where he currently remains.

• See also:
  • China issues warning for citizens travelling to Canada
  • Man arrested after fatal stabbing in Vancouver on Canada Day
  • Dr. Bonnie Henry was the guest of honour at her Gastown mural reveal

Roed said the man has been charged with one count of robbery, one count of assault causing bodily harm, one count of uttering threats, and four counts of assault. He will be taken into police custody after he is released from hospital.

“We thank the public for calling 911 so quickly and we’re grateful that the victims were not seriously hurt,” said Roed. “Police have not been able to speak to the suspect to determine motive, if any, or to identify him, as he was sedated by medical staff at the hospital due to his aggression.”

The victims were offered help through VPD’s Victim Services Section and did not need to attend hospital for treatment, Roed added.