Suspect arrested after breaking into an occupied business in New Westminster

NEW Westminster Police received a 9-1-1 call on the evening of August 12 from a store clerk working at a gas station in the downtown neighbourhood of New Westminster.

The store clerk described a man using a bottle of red wine to break through the glass door of the gas station. Once inside, the suspect stole cigarettes, lighters, and lottery tickets before fleeing the area.

Officers located someone matching the suspect description. The suspect fled from officers and after a brief foot pursuit, the suspect complied with instructions and was safely taken into custody.

At the time of the arrest the suspect had a warrant for his arrest in connection to a police investigation out of the city of Vancouver.

Sebastien Foster, 25, has been charged with one count each of robbery and obstructing a police officer.

“Thanks to the excellent work of patrol officers in quickly locating this suspect and taking him into custody,” said Sgt. Justine Thom. “Our local customer service staff are worthy of respect and should not face people smashing through doors to rob them of cigarettes and lottery tickets.”

The suspect remains in custody while awaiting their next court appearance. If you witnessed this incident and have yet to speak to police you’re asked to call 604-525-5411 and reference file 22-12214.