The New Westminster Police Department is currently investigating a disturbing incident where a 90-year-old woman was attacked by a stranger who forcibly removed her jewelry on Sunday afternoon.
The incident took place near Dan Lee Avenue close to Suzuki Street, prompting a concerned good Samaritan to call the police for assistance just before 2 p.m. The elderly victim was found in distress after the suspect pushed her to the ground during the altercation.
Sgt. Andrew Leaver expressed dismay at the situation, condemning the act as ‘disgraceful and cowardly’ after reviewing CCTV footage that captured the attack. The video revealed the woman attempting to defend herself by striking the alleged thief with a stick before being overpowered and injured.
Following the assault, New Westminster Coun. Paul Minhas shared that the victim required eleven stitches due to injuries sustained while the suspect forcefully removed her bangles, which held sentimental value as family heirlooms.
Minhas noted the distressing sight of blood leading from the scene of the crime into the victim’s home, emphasizing the severity of the incident. The victim intends to address the matter with the city council in response to the traumatic experience.
The suspect, described as a 5’11” tall man weighing approximately 260 pounds with a solid physique, was identified wearing a beige hooded sweater, grey pants, black shoes, and a surgical mask during the attack.
This incident is part of a concerning trend of distraction thefts targeting elderly individuals in Metro Vancouver, with similar incidents reported in Coquitlam and Richmond. Authorities in Coquitlam and North Vancouver have issued cautionary alerts, warning citizens to be vigilant when approached by strangers.
Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the New Westminster Police Department at (604)-525-5411.