Vancouver police say a 21-year-old Surrey man and three teen accomplices have been arrested in the stabbing of a passerby who intervened in an altercation between an Olympic Village liquor store security guard and shoplifter on Saturday night.
The injured 63-year-old man may himself have been working as security personnel at another business, according to Vancouver police spokesman Sgt. Steve Addison.
“The injuries are quite serious. There was a significant amount of blood coming out of his wrist area, and it required emergency medical intervention by our officers,” he said.
The four young people were arrested near Granville and Robson streets a few hours later, according to police.
The alleged stabber was released from custody with bail conditions and is expected to face criminal charges, including aggravated assault, once the police investigation is complete and evidence presented to the Crown, said Addison.
The accomplices — an 18-year-old male from Richmond and two 16-year-old females from Surrey and New Westminster — were also released with bail conditions.
On social media, Legacy Liquor said its staff have been deeply affected by the violence and that steps were being taken to “ensure the continued security of our store.”
Olympic Village locals who spoke to CBC said the stabbing has left them feeling unsettled.
“It’s definitely scary,” said Hama Sara, who can see the liquor store from her residence. “I think this area is getting a little more dangerous, as sad as that is.”
Vesna Zarick said since the pandemic, she’s become more cautious when she goes out to walk her dog.
“Seems that things are happening in my neighbourhood which were not common. I’ve lived here for 20 years, so I am definitely feeling a different mood.”
“This [area] needs to be patrolled better,” said Yvonne, who didn’t want to give her last name. “I really feel for someone who’s a security person, and they’re the one being targeted.”
Addison said while violent crime is generally trending lower in the city, violent shoplifting is a problem.
“We’re increasingly seeing people going into stores stealing products and using force — things like knives, needles, bear spray, physical force — in order to complete their thefts,” he said. “This incident speaks to the reality that small businesses, staff and shoppers are facing all the time in our city.”
Addison said the stabbing victim had been released from hospital but could face further surgery for his injuries.
In September, a man accused of killing one man and severing the hand of another in downtown Vancouver was arrested on Habitat Island in the Olympic Village. Brendan McBride is charged with second-degree murder and aggravated assault.
And last Boxing Day, two food delivery workers were stabbed trying to come to the aid of a robbery victim in the neighbourhood. The good Samaritans chased down the thief and held him until police arrived.