Mounties in Burnaby say they are investigating an alleged assault that took place Wednesday morning in the city’s Central Park area.
Police say a 55-year-old man was walking along a trail in the area between the pool and the gazebo around 8 a.m. when he was attacked by an unknown person.
Officers say the suspect told the victim to leave the area before assaulting him with a large wooden stick.
The suspect is described as a 20-year-old man with short hair, wearing a white shirt with black printed letters on it and dark pants.
As of Friday afternoon, the victim remains in hospital with “significant” injuries to his head and arm.
The RCMP says its Investigative Support Team has taken over the case.
“We have been conducting enhanced foot and bike patrols in the park and the area since the incident occurred, so park users may notice an increased police presence in the area,” said Corp. Mike Kalanj.
“Although there have not been any recent similar reports in the area, we want the public to be aware of the assault and ask that they are vigilant and report anything suspicious to police as we continue to investigate and search for the suspect.”
Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to call the Burnaby RCMP at 604-646-9999 and quote file number 2024-19523.