Vancouver Police seek suspect in West-side break-ins

Vancouver Police are sharing images of a suspect in multiple early-morning break-ins on the city’s west-side, and encourage people to lock their doors and windows to prevent additional crimes.

“We are actively working to identify and arrest this suspect, who is linked to break-ins throughout Marpole, Kerrisdale, Arbutus Ridge, Oakridge and Shaunghnessey,” says Constable Tania Visintin. “Until we find him, we’re asking people to take extra precautions and to call police immediately if you encounter him.”

The suspect, believed to be an Asian man in his 30s, has struck 16 times since January. He enters homes through unlocked doors late at night or in the early morning often when people are home – and wears blue gloves and a medical mask to cover his face. He often steals cash or other valuables that are left out in the open.

“This brazen behaviour is concerning, because it’s occurring when people are at home in their beds,” adds Constable Visintin. “Although nobody has been hurt, the fact this suspect is entering homes at night is frightening.”

Police believe the suspect may live in the area and is travelling the neighbourhoods at night on foot. He typically wears a dark baseball cap, a dark hooded jacket, dark pants, and dark running shoes. The most recent break-in occurred around 3:30 a.m. at a home near Marguerite Street and West 41^st Avenue.

All of the incidents have occurred between West 16^th Avenue to the north and West 70^th Avenue to the south, and between Oak Street to the east and Elm Street to the west.

Police have increased patrols in the neighbourhood, canvassed for video and witnesses, and taken other investigative steps.

Anyone who encounters the suspect committing a crime is asked to call 9-1-1 immediately. Anyone who can identify the man is asked to call 604-717-0610.