Random Assault Leaves Vancouver Man With Brain Damage

The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) is looking for the suspects involved in a senseless assault that has left a young man with life altering injuries.

On October 25^th a 34-year-old man was making his way home with his wife at about 2:40 a.m. when they walked past two groups of men in front of a bar. The couple was in the busy Granville Entertainment area and had just walked past the Roadhouse Bar and a pair of limousines parked on Smithe Street.

The two groups were involved in some sort of argument over hiring one of the limos when they turned their attention to the victim and his wife. For some unknown reason, the 34-year-old victim was punched in the face and left unconscious. Police say that when he hit the ground his head struck the concrete and caused severe injuries. He ultimately suffered brain damage from the one hit punch.

Once in hospital, the man underwent surgery to relieve the pressure in his head and had a portion of brain tissue removed.

On November 18^th the VPD arrested a suspect at his Coquitlam home. The 23-year-old was released with the promise to appear pending further investigation. Meanwhile, the victim remains in hospital nearly five weeks later recovering from the assault and continues to undergo medical treatments and procedures.

Investigators are looking for witnesses to the senseless assault and anyone who may have comforted the victim while waiting for an ambulance to arrive. One of these potential witnesses who police have not been able to speak with was a young woman, described as possibly having a prosthetic leg.

“Detectives have not completed their investigation and want to provide the best evidence possible for Crown so those responsible can be held accountable for their actions,” said VPD in a statement.

Even the smallest details may help conclude this investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the VPD Major Crime Section at (604) 717-2541.