THE Vancouver Police Department (VPD) is investigating a commercial break-and-enter that occurred early Friday morning in the city’s downtown core.

On September 4 at 6:45 a.m., VPD officers responded to a break-and-enter in progress at a business near Granville and Helmcken streets. A witness reported seeing a man smash the front window of the commercial property with a skateboard before stealing merchandise from inside. Officers arrived within minutes, but the suspect had already fled the area and was not located.

While the stolen property is of relatively low financial value, the damage to the storefront is estimated to be over $1,000. Investigators have obtained CCTV footage of the incident and are actively working to identify the suspect.

“The VPD shares the concerns of local business owners, workers, and residents regarding break-and-enters and street disorder in the downtown core,” says Constable Darren Wong. “We remain committed to working alongside these businesses to ensure that Granville remains a safe, vibrant, and welcoming destination for all.”