Files: 19-56157, 19-56129
Victoria, B.C. – Victoria Police Major Crime Detectives are providing an update in our investigations into two files which were previously reported as an attempted kidnapping and a robbery.
Based on the early investigation, our initial release indicated that these two incidents which occurred on December 29th, 2019 may be connected. However, additional investigation now indicates these two incidents are not linked and are now believed not to be connected.
Additionally, further investigation into the Bastion Square incident (VicPD File 19-56157) has brought clarity to the scope of the incident and has reduced the threat to the public. While investigated initially as an attempted kidnapping file, developments within that investigation have lead investigators to believe the suspect may be suffering from mental health and/or substance abuse concerns which lead to his actions. Several tips have come forward regarding potential suspects in this file and investigators are requesting the public remain vigilant. VicPD Major Crime detectives are continuing to investigate.
Investigators are also aware of recent posts on social media identifying potential suspects as well as describing alleged incidents. Some of these alleged incidents were posted to social media before, or instead of, being reported to police. Investigators continue to ask those with information about a potential suspect to call the Victoria Police non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654 or Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. While well-intentioned, posting images of individuals who resemble suspect descriptions endangers investigations and, more importantly, puts potentially innocent people at risk of harm.
Our investigations into these incidents continue.
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