The victim of a fatal stabbing in Vancouver’s Chinatown neighbourhood has been identified as Wataru Kakiuchi, a 32-year-old chef.
Kakiuchi, who worked at Hapa Izakaya in nearby Yaletown, was found injured near Union and Main streets just before 3:30 a.m. PT Wednesday, according to police. He died before he could be taken to hospital, police said.
Mayor Ken Sim said police have increased police presence around the area. He called the killing a “senseless act of violence” and said Kakiuchi was more than a talented chef.
“He was a positive presence and a cherished friend to many. His contributions to our community will not be forgotten,” Sim said in a news release Thursday.
“On behalf of the City of Vancouver, I extend my deepest condolences to Mr. Kakiuchi’s family, friends and colleagues. We stand with you in this time of sorrow and grief.”
Police say they have not yet made any arrests in the case, nor have they determined a motive for the attack.
