West Van police seek man after mall-goer may have been pricked with needle

Police in West Vancouver are trying to determine if a man was deliberately “pricked with a needle” at an area mall last week.

Investigators say the “strange incident” happened at Park Royal Mall on Thursday, Dec. 7.

The man was reportedly followed by “an unknown male” inside the mall before the latter is said to have “[bumped] the victim in the upper arm as he walked past.”

It was a day later that “the victim noticed his arm had become red and sore.” The man went to see a doctor about his concerns, and has since been prescribed medication, police say.

They add he also “requires regular blood tests.”

“The victim in this case is, quite rightfully, concerned about their health and would like to know what he may have been exposed to,” said Sgt. Mark McLean

“Our investigators are unclear if an assault occurred here and would like to speak with the male in question to determine exactly what happened.”

Police are now sharing CCTV footage of the person they are looking for. At the time of the incident, he was wearing glasses, a black and blue jacket, blue jeans, black and white running shoes, and was carrying a green reusable shopping bag.

Investigators are asking anyone who may recognize the male to contact police at 604-925-7300 and quote file #23-15633.

Editor’s note: This article has been updated to correct the incident happened at Park Royal Mall.