VANCOUVER Police arrested a man brandishing a knife and threatening people in downtown Vancouver on Thursday morning.

Just after 7 a.m., the VPD received several 9-1-1 calls about a man with a knife, walking near West Hastings Street and Seymour Street, randomly threatening people on the sidewalk.

Officers were able to quickly locate the man, who still had the knife in his possession but refused to listen to direction from police. The officers used a beanbag gun and a taser to take the man into custody. He was taken to hospital for assessment.

“Our officers responded quickly to a very dangerous, dynamic situation. They used their training and experience to resolve this incident without serious injury to anyone involved,” says Sgt. Jason Robillard.

Criminal charges related to weapons and assault are anticipated to be laid against the man who is a 19-year-old from Surrey. One pedestrian reported a minor injury and was offered medical treatment at the scene but refused. No other injuries were reported and the investigation is ongoing.