AT approximately 8 p.m. on July 2, New Westminster Police responded to a 9-1-1 call from a man inside a restaurant near Victoria Hill. Officers learned that a suspect allegedly took a large knife from the kitchen area and was threatening individuals inside the restaurant.

When officers arrived, they saw a man matching the suspect description leaving the restaurant with the knife. Officers spoke to the man, de-escalated the situation, and convinced him to drop the knife. The suspect followed police instructions and he was arrested without incident.

James Hamelin, 39, has been charged with assault with a weapon, uttering threats, and mischief.

“This suspect’s behavior caused people inside this restaurant considerable fear,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver. “Staff did the right thing by not engaging the male directly and ensuring the personal safety of themselves and their patrons.”

Police would like to connect with the patrons that were inside the restaurant who fled the area before police arrived. It is important officers hear from them about what they saw and offer them the support of the Victim Assistance Unit. If you have any information on this incident, you are asked to call the New Westminster Police Department and reference file 2023-10729.