Basketball player hospitalized after 'reckless' New West firecracker attack

Jun 26 2025, 7:31 pm

A scary firecracker attack in New West has prompted a call for witnesses who may be able to help identify a suspect.

According to the New Westminster Police Department, the attack occurred on June 23 at around 9:30 p.m.

The department stated that the victim was at the courts in Moody Park when someone unknown to him approached on an electric scooter. The suspect then allegedly threw a lit firecracker at the victim. According to the department, the victim sustained injuries to his hand that required hospitalization.

Moody Park, including the basketball court, is well-utilized by the community and frequented by members of all age groups, including individuals and families. Sections of the park, including the court, have lights that allow visitors to come at night without being in complete darkness.

“This kind of reckless behaviour causes life-altering injuries,” stated Sergeant Andrew Leaver in a media release.

“We’re asking anyone who was in the area or who may have dash cam footage from that time to reach out to our investigators.”

The New Westminster Police Department has released a brief description of the suspect in hopes that witnesses may be able to identify him. The suspect is described as a youth wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and a balaclava. As mentioned, he was riding an electric scooter at the time of the attack. No further specifics were provided by the department.

“Anyone with information, including video footage from around Moody Park from approximately 9:30 p.m., is asked to call investigators at 604-525-5411 and reference file 2025-10580.”

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