Man known to police charged with second-degree murder in death of homeless man in Langley

DAVID Christopher Van Den Brink, 21, of no fixed address, has been charged with second-degree murder in the death of a homeless man in Langley on Monday, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team announced on Wednesday.

On Monday (June 1), just after 7 p.m., the Langley RCMP responded to a fight in the 20300-block of Fraser Highway outside the Baselines Pub and Langley Hotel.  Police found one man lying on the sidewalk in critical condition who succumbed to his injuries. The victim, a well-known Langley homeless man, has been identified as 37-year-old Wells Tony Gallagher.

After a brief foot chase, the accused was arrested near the scene.  David Van Den Brink is known to police.

Media reports said the victim was brutally stabbed.

IHIT Sgt. Stephanie Ashton said: “Multiple witnesses came forward to provide information to police.  This community support, coupled with the partnership between IHIT and Langley RCMP, is responsible for investigators obtaining charge approval quickly.”

Anyone with information regarding this investigation can call the IHIT tip line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448) or email at ihittipline@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

If you wish to remain anonymous provide your anonymous tip information on the web at solvecrime.ca or by phone at 1-800-222-8477.