New Westminster police arrest suspect in convenience store assault

New Westminster police have arrested a man they say is involved in the alleged assault of a convenience store employee last weekend.

Police say it happened at a store on Columbia Street, near 6th Street, where the suspect allegedly hit the store employee, and threatened them with a knife, after he was asked to pay for ice cream.

The victim suffered minor injuries, police say.

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When officers attempted to catch the suspect, he tried to run away. But police were able to arrest him, and say they found three knives on him.

Sgt. Justine Thom reminds business owners in the city to report any violent behaviour from customers.

“If they ever have someone that comes into the store that is threatening them, that is being assaultive, that needs to result in a call to 911,” she said.

Police say charges are being considered for assault with a weapon and breach of conditions.

Anyone with additional information is asked to call the New Westminster Police Department at 604-525-5411.

With files from Maria Vinca