ON July 30 at approximately 10 p.m., New Westminster Police officers were flagged down and pointed in the direction of someone who was suffering major abdominal trauma from a significant stab wound. Officers provided the man emergency first aid and he was transported to hospital.

Officers contained the scene and canvassed the area for witnesses and video surveillance. The Major Crime Unit took conduct of the investigation and received support from the Street Crime Unit, Crime Reduction Unit, Forensic Identification Unit, Lower Mainland Integrated Police Dog Services, and the Metro Vancouver Transit Police. On August 29, two suspects were arrested.

John Baptiste, 18, of Surrey has been held in custody for court and charges have been approved for aggravated assault and assault with a weapon.

Daniel Keewatin, 19, of Langley has been released with numerous conditions and charges have been approved for assault causing bodily harm.

“A man was seriously hurt in a senseless and unprovoked attack by a stranger,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver. “Our officers have worked tirelessly to gather evidence and identify those responsible. We are committed to ensuring that justice is served and that those involved face their day in court.”

The New Westminster Police Department thanked the person who flagged down police and would like to encourage other residents who see a victim in distress to do the same.