Suspect sought after bus driver bear sprayed in Vancouver
Posted March 14, 2022 9:03 pm.
Last Updated March 14, 2022 11:20 pm.
Transit police are trying to identify a man they say attacked a bus driver with bear spray in East Vancouver last month.
Around 2:45 a.m. on Feb. 20, police say the man boarded a bus on Main Street near National Avenue. At one point, the man moved from the back of the bus to the front and sat in the seat across from the driver.
“Once the bus came to a stop, the suspect allegedly reached around the plexiglass barrier that separates passengers from the operator, and sprayed the contents of a canister, believed to be bear spray, into the face of the operator. There was no interaction prior to the alleged assault,” said a statement from Metro Vancouver Transit Police.
“The driver was immediately overcome by the effects of the spray as his ability to breathe became impaired. He was treated on scene by the Vancouver Fire Department and while he did not suffer any serious physical injuries, the incident continues to have an impact on his mental well-being.”
The suspect is described as 35-45 years of age, with a slim build, and short black hair. He was wearing a black hooded jacket, dark pants, black runners, and a black backpack. He was also wearing a surgical mask and a necklace with a large pendant.
Anyone with information is asked to call (604) 515-8300 or text at 87-77-77.
