RCMP investigating axe attack in Nanaimo, B.C.

NANAIMO, B.C. - RCMP in Nanaimo, B.C., are investigating after a 30-year-old man was struck with the blunt end of an axe blade.

Police say the man suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries Saturday in the attack in the parking lot of the Port Place Mall.

The RCMP say witnesses told officers that the victim and suspect knew each other and had been seen arguing prior to the incident.

A police news release says the suspect ran after hitting the victim and took the axe with him.

Officers, with help from police dog services, searched for the suspect but were unsuccessful.

The victim was taken to the Nanaimo hospital.

“Investigators are actively searching for the suspect and are confident that he will be soon located and held accountable for his alleged actions," said Nanaimo RCMP Const. Gary O’Brien in the release.