violent assault

Man suffers serious injuries after violent assault outside Nanaimo business

Oct 9, 2024 | 6:04 AM

Editor’s Note: An earlier version of this report incorrectly stated the incident took place outside Dolly’s Gym at 107 Nicol St. This was based on information received at the time from RCMP. We’ve edited the article to further clarify the location.

NANAIMO — One man is in hospital with serious injuries following a vicious assault outside a downtown business on Tuesday morning.

Nanaimo RCMP said the incident occurred in the 100 block of Nicol St. near a tattoo parlour around 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 8, when a man believed to be unhoused was attacked by another man.

Reserve Cst. Gary O’Brien said they’re unsure why the assault took place at this time, as their investigation continues.

“An individual who appeared to be unhoused was sitting on the curb. He was approached and assaulted by another individual. That person received significant injuries, he’s in the hospital currently being treated.”

O’Brien said the suspect was wearing dark clothing and fled on foot towards the downtown immediately after the assault, but thanks to nearby video footage and eyewitness accounts, he said they’re confident the person would be identified soon.

Anyone with information including dash cam footage of the area or who saw the assault take place is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.

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