Police in New Westminster launched a large operation Wednesday night after tracking a camper van connected to an assault in East Vancouver. The van, parked in a lot at McBride Boulevard and 8th Avenue, drew a heavy police presence as officers attempted to detain the suspect. Authorities began investigating the assault around 7 p.m. in East Vancouver and traced the vehicle to New Westminster. Officers believed the suspect may have been inside the RV and called on the individual to exit the vehicle. Witnesses reported seeing police surround the camper van while issuing repeated commands for the person inside to come out.
Despite breaking into the camper van, police left the scene without a suspect in custody. A statement released Thursday confirmed the individual was not located and remains at large. Authorities said the initial assumption that the suspect was inside the van proved incorrect. Police also noted that the suspect and victim are known to each other. Officers do not believe the public is at risk.
The victim, whose identity has not been released, is reportedly recovering from the assault. Police continue to investigate the case and are asking anyone with information about the suspect or the camper van to come forward. The Vancouver Police Department is urging residents to remain vigilant but assured the community that there is no ongoing threat. The investigation remains active as officers work to locate the individual linked to the assault. Authorities continue to review surveillance footage and witness accounts from the scene. The police operation highlighted their swift response to a potentially dangerous situation, even though it ended without an arrest.
New Westminster police are reminding citizens to report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods. While the suspect remains free, officials are emphasizing that the risk to the general public is low. Residents near McBride Boulevard and 8th Avenue expressed surprise at the large police presence. Many noted the unusual scene of officers surrounding a stationary camper van late at night. In their statement, officers reiterated that the suspect is still at large and encouraged anyone with information to contact authorities. The department praised the cooperation of witnesses, which has aided in piecing together the events leading up to the camper van standoff. Officials said they are focusing on gathering all available evidence to ensure a swift resolution. They confirmed that the victim’s injuries are not life-threatening and that recovery is ongoing.
The search for the suspect continues in New Westminster and surrounding areas. Police say they remain committed to resolving the case while keeping the public informed. Residents are advised to remain cautious but assured that there is no immediate danger.
