VPD seeks bystander video to ID Breakout Festival suspects

Vancouver Police have launched an online video portal and a dedicated tip line to identify suspects who sparked violence and damaged property following the cancellation of a concert Sunday night at the PNE Amphitheatre.

"Video evidence and eyewitness accounts will form a critical part of this investigation, as we work to identify people who destroyed property, engaged in violent behaviour, and put everyone’s safety at risk," says Sergeant Steve Addison.

"We’ve made it easy for people to come forward, and we’re asking anyone who has video or photos to visit vpd.ca and send them to us for review."

Vancouver Police immediately launched a criminal investigation after the last-minute cancellation of a performer at the Breakout Festival sparked violence and wide-spread property damage in and around Hastings Park on September 18. Though most concert-goers left without incident, several hundred stayed behind and caused problems inside the venue and in the surrounding area.

Food vendor kiosks were overturned and damaged, and various tables, tents, and refrigerators were overturned. There were reports of looting, and multiple fights broke out in the neighbourhood.

Seven people were arrested for breach of peace and taken to jail as VPD officers worked to restore order.

"This is likely to be a long and difficult investigation, but we are committed to identifying and pursuing criminal charges against those who acted violently, destroyed property, and put other concert-goers in danger," adds Sergeant Addison. "We know there are people who have evidence that can help us in this investigation, and we’re asking them to do the right thing."