The Nanaimo RCMP is investigating after a man was stabbed in a mall parking lot following an altercation between two men.
A 50-year-old man was stabbed after a physical fight broke out in the Port Place Mall parking lot in front of the Dollarama at approximately 6 p.m. on Wednesday.
According to the victim’s wife, she was standing outside her car with her family when the suspect walked by.
Her 25-year-old daughter told the suspect that he was too close to them, and due to COVID-19 protocols, he should maintain a 6-foot separation.
The suspect took exception to this comment and allegedly yelled obscenities at her. This is when police say the 50-year-old man moved toward the suspect and was struck with a metal coffee cup.
A fight ensued between the two and several moments later her husband was stabbed.
The suspect left on foot and the victim’s wife called 911. Police note the knife was recovered at the scene.
The victim was taken to the hospital where he received treatment for his wounds.
Approximately one hour later, the Nanaimo RCMP was informed that the suspect was on Gabriola Island.
Gabriola Island RCMP officers arrived at the suspect’s home and arrested him without incident.
He was transported to Nanaimo on the Gabriola Island ferry and turned over to Nanaimo RCMP officers.
The suspect was served with an Undertaking for Assault with a Weapon and released from custody. His first court appearance is set for May 25, 2021, in Nanaimo Provincial court.
READ MORE: Female groped by stranger in mall parking lot in Nanaimo
Rebecca Lawrence
