VPD officers made more than 110 arrests over the weekend

Vancouver Police are investigating dozens of serious crimes that occurred over the Halloween weekend, as thousands of people poured into the city for one of the busiest stretches of the Covid era.

"Despite deploying dozens of extra officers, VPD was stretched thin throughout the weekend after a number of violent incidents resulted in one homicide, several serious injuries, and extensive property damage," says Sergeant Steve Addison, adding that at least five people reported being sexually assaulted and four police officers were assaulted during the weekend.

Multiple vehicles were set on fire overnight Sunday in South Vancouver in what police believe were targeted arsons. Shortly before 1 a.m. Monday, VPD launched an investigation after two cars were set on fire near Prince Edward Street and East 26th Avenue, in Mount Pleasant. Less than two-hours later, someone set fire to a car that was parked near Victoria Drive and East 54th Avenue. The car was completely destroyed. Investigators are looking into possible links to the Lower Mainland gang conflict.

"In addition to these major crimes, VPD officers also contended with large numbers of people who came downtown to party," adds Sergeant Addison. "This resulted in several arrests for fights and drunkenness, as well as numerous reports of gropings and unprovoked assaults."

VPD officers made more than 110 arrests between Friday night and Sunday morning, including 82 people for criminal offences and 30 others for breach of peace or public intoxication.