Security footage of suspect in unprovoked attack released by Vancouver police

24-year-old was attacked from behind as she walked home on Saturday, police say
CBC News · Posted: Feb 16, 2021 1:57 PM PT | Last Updated: February 16

Police have released security footage of a man suspected of attacking a woman unprovoked in Vancouver's West End on Saturday. Officers are hoping someone can identify the suspect.

The woman, who had been shopping on Davie Street, was tackled from behind at 9:40 p.m. PT as she walked down Maxine Lane, which is the south lane of Burnaby Street. The man grabbed her from behind and they both fell to the ground.

The 24-year-old woman screamed and the suspect ran off toward Bute Street.

"This investigation has undoubtedly created concern in the community," Const. Tania Visintin wrote in a statement. "We want to identify this individual as soon as possible. Investigators ask everyone to take a good look at this footage, and to call us if they know who this is."

Police said in a statement Tuesday the suspect is believed to be white, about five feet 11 inches tall and in his mid 40s. He was wearing a waist-length black leather jacket, dark pants and a dark face mask.

Anyone with information is asked to call VPD's Special Investigations Section at 604-717-0602 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8466.