Man threatens to shoot Holt Renfrew staff during attempted armed robbery: VPD

The Vancouver Police Department made an arrest Monday in connection with an attempted armed robbery at the Pacific Centre Holt Renfrew.

The force said a man armed with a gun and explosive devices entered the downtown retailer trying to steal merchandise. Police said the man threatened to shoot staff.

Officers managed to arrest the man outside the store with help from a nearby witness.

“Following the arrest, police seized two improvised explosive devices, a firearm, and other weapons,” Cpl. Tania Visintin said in a news release. “The explosive devices were later rendered safe by explosive technicians from VPD’s Emergency Response Section.”

Douglas Ewing, 66, is facing several charges in connection with the incident at the store. He’s charged with robbery, uttering threats to cause death and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Holt Renfrew told Daily Hive it would like to thank the VPD for its quick response. The Canadian retailer added it’s grateful no one was injured.

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