Metro Vancouver Transit Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect who allegedly committed a robbery on a bus, punching the victim several times.
On November 6th, 2019, at approximately 5:20 pm, a man boarded a bus in the 2000 block West 41st Avenue, Vancouver, BC. Shortly into his commute the man approached another passenger, striking up a conversation and asking if he would trade his toque for the man’s hat.
When the victim refused and tried to ignore the man, the suspect allegedly grabbed the toque from the victim. When he tried to get it back, the suspect grabbed him by the collar, clenched his fist and cocked his arm back. The victim was successful in retrieving his toque but the suspect began violently punching him.
A Good Samaritan intervened but was also allegedly punched in the face by the suspect prior to him getting off the bus at the Marpole Bus Loop.
. #MVTPMediaRelease @TransitPolice are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect who allegedly committed a robbery on a bus, punching the victim several times. Do you know this suspect? Tip line 604-516-7419. Please RThttps://t.co/Mfavn97IZx pic.twitter.com/X9hiCO3Yoz
— Sgt. Clint Hampton (@SgtCHampton) December 19, 2019
Police attended to speak with the victim, however, the Good Samaritan had already left the scene.
The suspect is described as an Indigenous male, medium build, wearing a green Cariboo Beer hat, black jacket, black shirt, dark jeans and black shoes.
The level of violence involved in this robbery is concerning. Transit Police would like to speak to the Good Samaritan and anyone with information about the identity of this suspect, or who witnessed this incident. Contact the Transit Police tip line at 604.516.7419 or text us using code 87.77.77, referring to file 2019-21225.