72-year-old man fatally stabbed at Biltmore Hotel: VPD

Dec 16 2020, 7:55 pm

Police are investigating a fatal stabbing of a 72-year-old man that occurred on Tuesday afternoon in the Mount Pleasant area.

The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) responded to reports of a serious assault at around 2:40 pm at the Biltmore Hotel, which is located on 395 Kingsway. The housing program includes 95 residential units with priority given to nearby residents who are at-risk or suffering from homelessness.

The victim was identified as Alex Gortmaker, who was found by police “suffering from stab wounds.”

First responders attempted to revive the senior but he was pronounced dead on the scene.  At this point in time, it’s not believed that the suspect and the victim knew each other.

“Investigators believe there is no relationship between the victim and suspect,” says Constable Tania Visintin, VPD in a statement. “This is an unfortunate case where the victim and suspect had an altercation that tragically resulted in Mr. Gortmaker getting stabbed.”

Visintin adds that a 27-year-old was arrested later in the evening and is currently in custody as the investigation continues.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the VPD at 604-717-2500 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

This is Vancouver’s 19th homicide of 2020.

Vincent PlanaVincent Plana

+ News
+ Crime