Man in hospital after face slashed with box cutter in overnight Kelowna, B.C. altercation

A man was arrested, and another is at large, say police, following an overnight assault in downtown Kelowna, B.C.

According to the RCMP, a 21-year-old man suffered a deep facial wound after being slashed with a box cutter during an altercation with two other men.

Police say the assault happened around 2 a.m., at Stuart Park. They also say it involved homeless people. They also called it an isolated incident.

“The victim, who is known to police, was bleeding heavily from a deep slash wound across his face,” said Kelowna RCMP.

“The man was uncooperative and even refused to identify himself or provide a statement.”

RCMP say the victim was taken to hospital, and that his injuries included a damaged artery. He was expected to undergo surgery.

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Regarding the suspects, police say a blood trail led them to the washroom area where the assault allegedly took place.

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“Surveillance captured the two suspects (fleeing the scene),” said Kelowna RCMP. “One suspect rode away on a bike while the second suspect is seen leaving in a vehicle.”

Police say officers identified one of the suspects, who is also well known to police. He was located a few blocks away and was arrested for assault.

“This once again demonstrates the challenges officers face when dealing with street-entrenched individuals who suffer from mental-health and substance-use challenges,” said Const. Mike Della-Paolera.

If you witnessed this altercation, or have dashcam video around that time, you are asked to contact the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300 or Central Okanagan Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-4477.

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