Vancouver police are asking for the public’s help to identify a group of suspects involved in what investigators describe as a violent robbery targeting a senior Tuesday morning.
The incident happened around 9:15 a.m. near East Hastings Street and Jackson Avenue, according to the Vancouver Police Department (VPD).
Police say a 75-year-old man was walking in the neighbourhood when he was approached by a group of assailants who allegedly pushed him to the ground, punched him multiple times in the face, and stole his belongings.
Investigators have released video of the attack in hopes of identifying those responsible.
“This was a very serious incident where a senior who lives in the area was going for a walk in the neighbourhood and was attacked and robbed,” said Cst. Megan Lui in a statement.
“The suspects are still out there. Our hope is that the video will help us track them down.”
According to police, the victim tried to recover his property by following the suspects after the robbery. During that confrontation, the suspects allegedly slammed him into a wall twice before fleeing the area.
The victim was taken to hospital with a head injury and bruising. Police say he has since been released.
“We are asking anyone who witnessed the robbery or has information that could assist investigators to come forward,” Lui said. “We want to identify those responsible and hold them accountable.”