Video and images

VANCOUVER Police have launched an investigation after violent confrontations occurred on Friday at a rally marking the International Transgender Day of Visibility.

The incidents occurred when rally-goers confronted a group of counter-protesters inside Grandview Park, where between 75 and 100 people had gathered. Police believe at least two people were assaulted.

Detectives from VPD’s Robbery, Assault and Arson Unit have been assigned to conduct a full investigation, which will include a review of bystander video, eyewitness accounts, and victim statements. The investigation will consider all of the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

On Saturday, investigators reached out to a victim who posted video of an assault online, and invited that person to meet with detectives in order to provide a statement and video footage from the incident. VPD is also sharing parts of video and images posted online by a victim, with hopes more people who witnessed the altercations will come forward with information.

Investigators believe there may be additional witnesses who have not spoken to police, as well as bystander video that may show different perspectives of what occurred.

Anyone with information is asked to call 604-717-2541.

Protest Facts

• There were more than 800 protests and rallies in Vancouver in 2022.

• The Vancouver Police Department supports everyone’s right to peacefully assemble to express their views. Our officers set aside their personal beliefs in order to balance the democratic rights of protesters and ensure everyone’s safety.

• Though most protests are peaceful, there are times when people with opposing views have conflicts. When violence and disorder occurs, the police’s priority is to restore order quickly and to prevent further escalation of violence. Police must balance this priority with the need to make immediate arrests, which could incite further violence.

• The B.C. Prosecution Service is responsible for independently assessing evidence in all criminal cases to determine whether a criminal charge is appropriate. Police officers in British Columbia do not have authority to lay criminal charges. Police do not have authority to identify victims of crime or release names of suspects who have not been charged.