VPD investigates Downtown Eastside machete attack

Vancouver – Vancouver Police are investigating after two people were slashed with a machete outside a Downtown Eastside hotel last month, and are asking anyone with information to call police.

Multiple witnesses flagged down police on June 19 around 7 p.m., after a 49-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman were approached from behind by the suspect and allegedly slashed while loading their luggage into a taxi near Main and East Hastings streets.

“We don’t know if there was a motive for this attack,” says Constable Tania Visintin. “Investigators believe it was completely random and unprovoked, and they want anyone with information to come forward.”

Both victims were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

“This week, investigators obtained surveillance video from nearby businesses that captures an image of the suspect,” adds Constable Visintin. “Given the time of day and the location of this incident, we believe there were witnesses who have not yet come forward. We also believe that people will recognize the suspect and can help us identify him.”

Police are looking for a man 40-50-years old who is about 5’10 tall. He was wearing a black long sleeve shirt, grey pants, black sneakers and carrying an umbrella.

Anyone with information is asked to call VPD’s Major Crime Unit at 604-717-2541.