Vancouver Police are asking for the public’s help to identify the man responsible for a “one-punch” assault that sent a man to hospital with serious injuries.
Shortly after 10:00 p.m. on August 31st, a 49-year-old Vancouver man was sucker-punched while having a cigarette and talking with other patrons outside of Pub 340 located at 340 Cambie Street. The attacker then simply walked away, leaving the man lying on the sidewalk unconscious and bloodied.
The victim was taken to hospital suffering from a head injury and brain bleed. He spent three weeks in hospital and many more weeks recovering at home, but he has made a full recovery.
Video of the incident shows the suspect inside the bar drinking with three associates before the assault occurs outside. He is described as Aboriginal, in his 30s, 5’10” tall, with a medium build, light complexion and several tattoos. He was wearing a black jacket with the word “Headrush” on the back.
There does not appear to be any prior contact between the victim and the suspect, or with any of his three friends, until a short conversation just prior to the assault. Something appears to have set the suspect off to make a decision to lash out at the unsuspecting victim.
“This was a cowardly act by someone with no regard for the consequences of his actions,” says VPD Constable Brian Montague. “One punch can have a life-altering outcome for the victim, their family, and the attacker.”
Anyone with information about this incident, or believes they know who the person responsible for this attack might be, is asked to call the Vancouver Police Major Crime Section at (604) 717-2541 or Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 222-8477.
