Vancouver Police identify suspect in Yaletown home invasions

VANCOUVER Police say they have identified the person responsible for two home invasions that occurred in the Yaletown neighbourhood this month.

“A person’s worst nightmare would be waking up to an unwelcomed stranger in their home,” said Constable Tania Visintin on Friday. “Thanks to both very aware and heads up victims and great work by our patrol officers and detectives, we were able to hold the right suspect accountable.”

Earlier this month, officers were called to a home in the area of Nelson and Richards streets where a man had broken into a townhome, threatened the homeowner with a knife and then fled the area. A suspect was not located at the time.

Subsequently, on Wednesday at around 3:30 a.m., police responded to a 911 call reporting a break-in into a residence near Pacific Boulevard and Cambie Street. The suspect had a knife and attempted to rob the victim. The victim managed to run to the bathroom for safety and phoned police as the suspect ran out of the home. Officers located and arrested the suspect.

“This type of incident is extremely concerning for police as someone’s personal safety is at risk,” said Visintin.  “Through some diligent police work, our investigators were able to determine that the same suspect was responsible for both incidents.”

Charges relating to the break-ins and the weapon have been recommended to Crown counsel for review and approval.