THE Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT), in partnership with the New Westminster Police Department (NWPD), on Friday arrested two persons for their alleged involvement in Friday’s homicide in downtown New Westminster. 

Ryan Crossley, 31, has been arrested for the murder of 51-year-old Robert Powshuk. Both are from New Westminster. The BC Prosecution Service (BCPS) has charged Crossley with second-degree murder.

A second suspect remains in custody. Homicide investigators are still determining that person’s involvement. There are no other persons believed involved at this time. There is no further risk to the public, said IHIT Sgt. David Lee on Saturday.

On November 19 at approximately 6:32 a.m., the New Westminster Police Department received a call from the Waves Coffee House on Columbia Street advising that a male had entered the store and was bleeding heavily.

NWPD patrol members located the victim and along with New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services provided lifesaving interventions. The male, who was suffering from life-threatening injuries, was transported to the Royal Columbian Hospital where lifesaving interventions continued; however, he did not survive.

IHIT thanked its partners in NWPD and the Forensic Identification Section (FIS) for their quick actions and assistance. It said that although one person has been charged, the investigation is still in its early stages.