A man has been arrested after three violent assaults in downtown Vancouver that left two women fighting for their lives and another injured Friday morning.
Police believe the suspect attacked the women with his bare hands beginning at around 9:30 a.m. in the 200-block of Columbia Street, where a yet-unidentified Asian woman was critically injured.
The victim, who is believed to be in her 70s or 80s, has been taken to hospital, but police fear she could die before they manage to reach her family.
“We’ve been told her condition is grave,” Const. Brian Montague said.
In Pictures: Man arrested after violent rampage
She is described as 5-foot-tall, 105 lbs. with grey salt-and-pepper hair and a slim build. Authorities released a picture of the jewelry she was wearing, including a gold ring, a silver ring, a jade bracelet and a silver bracelet.
Anyone with information on her identity is asked to call 911 immediately.
Within half an hour after the first attack, two other women, were assaulted in the 700-block of Pacific Boulevard. Police said a 63-year-old victim also suffered life-threatening injuries, while a 79-year-old is being treated for less-severe wounds.
With two victims unable to speak, police said the motive is still unclear.
“Although it’s early in the investigation, it does not appear that the victims are known to the individual that we have in custody,” Montague said.
A suspect was arrested not far from Pacific Boulevard, wearing nothing but a pair of briefs. Investigators are looking into whether the man was recently hospitalized for mental health issues.
Authorities have also heard reports the suspect may have assaulted people as he allegedly made his way from the Downtown Eastside to the crime scene. One man may have been attacked in his car.
Investigators will be following up on those reports, and canvassing for any surveillance video that may assist in the case.
With a report from CTV British Columbia’s Penny Daflos
