ON Wednesday, June 12 at approximately 8 a.m., a 55-year-old man was walking on a trail in Central Park in an area between the pool and the gazebo when he was assaulted by an unknown suspect who told the victim to leave the area. The suspect then assaulted the victim with a large wooden stick.

The suspect is described as a 20-year-old Indigenous man with short hair, wearing a white shirt with black printed letters on it and dark pants.

The victim remains in the hospital with significant injuries to his head and arm.

Burnaby RCMP’s Investigative Support Team has assumed conduct of the investigation.

“We have been conducting enhanced foot and bike patrols in the park and the area since the incident occurred, so park users may notice an increased police presence in the area,” said Cpl. Mike Kalanj with Burnaby RCMP. “Although there have not been any recent similar reports in the area, we want the public to be aware of the assault and ask that they are vigilant and report anything suspicious to police as we continue to investigate and search for the suspect.”

Police are asking anyone with information to call Burnaby RCMP at 604-646-9999. Quote file 2024-19523.