A violent home invasion took place in a waterfront home, located at 2590 Esplanade directly across from Willows Beach.
Oak Bay Police dispatch received the 911 call at 7:30 a.m. on April 25, according to Sgt. Rob Smith.
“What we know at this time is that a man, unknown to the resident, entered her home,” Smith said. “At some point, he was confronted by the resident, and a struggle ensued. The resident suffered injuries from what’s believed to be an edged-weapon and the male fled the scene.”
Armed with a large knife, the intruder struggled with the 45-year-old female resident.
She suffered serious injuries to her upper body and is undergoing surgery.
The male suspect remains at large.
“This all occurred on a bright, sunny Tuesday morning on Willows Beach,” says Smith. “The house is in plain view of the beach. The beach was being used by dog walkers and the early morning people that are always there. We’re hoping that someone saw something out of the ordinary this morning, and can contact us with information.”
Neighbours still can’t believe what happened just metres away. Ken McLeod moved into the area in 24 years ago, and lives three doors away.
“I was shocked, and really surprised,” McLeod said. “We’ve lived here since 1993, and it’s been a kind of quiet, neighbourhood.”
Oak Bay residents walking on Willows Beach say they cannot remember such a violent incident in the community.
“I’m totally shocked. I’ve lived here twenty years, and I’ve never heard of anything like this. A home invasion?”
“To hear something like this is very shocking. I’ve seen lights on inside, and I’ve seen people in that house. But it’s quiet private in the way that it’s been built.”
Saanich, Victoria and Oak Bay police departments are involved in the investigation including canine units.
Police say the suspect is a male in his 20s, wth a heavy build, wearing a brown jacket, dark pants, and a baseball cap.
He had a light blue and white handkerchief wrapped around his neck.
The public is not at risk, according to Sgt. Smith.
Keith Vass
