Vancouver Police are investigating a possible hate crime that occurred on Main Street and 2nd Avenue.
Police say the altercation involved a security guard and a man who was panhandling outside of a fast-food restaurant. Police didn’t name the restaurant but may be referring to Chai Wagon.
The 44-year-old panhandler is under arrest following a series of violent incidents.
In one incident, on Aug. 4 at around 9 a.m., the suspect was panhandling when security guards asked him to leave the area. The suspect allegedly threw a cup, pushed a guard, and yelled racist comments about the security guard’s background and religion.
“The suspect then allegedly struck the security guard and removed the security guard’s turban before leaving the area,” VPD said.
One block away and a short time later, the suspect allegedly approached another victim and demanded money while making threats.
VPD says that the victim complied and handed over cash.
“The suspect then allegedly struck the victim in the head and demanded more money. After providing additional cash, the victim was able to get away and call police,” VPD added.
VPD officers were able to track down the suspect, discovering him at a nearby residence. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody “without incident.”
#VPDNews: A 44-year-old man has been arrested and is under investigation for a possible hate crime following a series of violent incidents at a fast-food restaurant near Main Street and 2nd Avenue.
On August 4, at approximately 9 a.m., a suspect was panhandling outside the… pic.twitter.com/UsBM0sjrq7
— Vancouver Police (@VancouverPD) August 5, 2026
Police have recommended charges of assault and robbery.
“VPD patrol and hate crime officers continue their investigation. Anyone with additional information about the incidents is asked to call the Vancouver non-emergency line at 604-717-3321,” VPD said.
Vancouver Police has a dedicated hate crime portal if you feel you have been the victim of one.
“A hate crime is a criminal offence against a person or property that is based upon the victim’s race, national or ethnic origin, language, colour, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression, or any other similar factor,” VPD says.