AT approximately 10 a.m. on June 23, the New Westminster Police Department responded to a 9-1-1 call from a man who said he was robbed of his cellphone and wallet by a man with a firearm. The victim said that he was at 4th Avenue and Ash Street when the armed robbery took place.
Police flooded the area and soon located someone matching the suspect description at 6th Avenue and 8th Street. The suspect fled from police and after a foot pursuit, he was arrested. An officer was transported to local hospital after sustaining an injury during the foot pursuit.
New Westminster Police Department officers will be recommending charges of assault, robbery, and uttering threats.
“Thanks to the officers who located and quickly arrested this suspect,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver. “At this time we believe the suspect is not known to the victim and that this was an unprovoked assault.”
The victim’s cell phone and wallet were returned to him. Officers canvassed the area for CCTV and additional evidence. Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed this incident to share what they saw by speaking to officers at 604-525-5411.