Vancouver – Vancouver Police got a valuable assist from some helpful bystanders this weekend, after a suspect became violent and attacked two officers near a group of families in Stanley Park.
The officers were on patrol Saturday afternoon when they were called around 4 p.m. to check on a man who was yelling, swearing, and making families feel unsafe near the playground at Second Beach.
Shortly after the officers arrived, the man turned on them. He attacked the constables and caused injures to their faces and heads.
“In the struggle to gain control of the suspect, the officers were unable to immediately reach for their radios to call for back up,” says Sergeant Steve Addison. “That’s when two bystanders stepped in, put themselves in harm’s way, and helped the officers gain control of the violent suspect.”
Both officers were treated for minor injuries and finished their shifts.
The suspect, age 30, has been charged with two counts of assaulting a peace officer and was released by the courts.
“Police work is often unpredictable. When we’re in a tough spot, it helps to know the community has our backs,” adds Sergeant Addison. “Though our officers are a bit banged up, we’re all grateful these bystanders stepped in to prevent more serious injuries.”
Vancouver Police are working on plans to formally recognize the Good Samaritans.
