An 18-year-old UBC student is recovering after an attempted mugging and slashing on campus just after 4 a.m. Tuesday morning.
Sgt. Drew Grainger of the University RCMP says the student was returning home last night in the 2500-block of West Mall when he was suddenly confronted from behind by an unknown man, brandishing a small knife.
The suspect demanded his wallet and phone, but the victim ran away. The suspect started slashing at the victim, resulting in several superficial cuts to his back and shoulders. The suspect fled on foot.
RCMP don’t think the attack is related to a series of sexual assaults on the campus, but are urging students to be vigilant and avoid walking alone after dark.
“This is a despicable act of violence that has occurred in a community which is already on high alert and sensitive to other recent attacks on students” says Sgt. Drew Grainger. “The RCMP continue to work tirelessly along with Campus Security and other UBC Stakeholders to make our Campus a safe and secure place. We again urge all students, staff and other residents on Campus to be constantly vigilant and aware of their potential vulnerability when walking alone on Campus in the very early hours of the morning.”
The attacker is described as a Caucasian male approximately 40 years old. He had a greying beard and short grey hair, with an average build. He was wearing a light-coloured hoodie and black sweat pants.
UBC RCMP would like to speak to anyone who might have information to help identify the suspect. They are asked to call 604-224-1322 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
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