RCMP are investigating a “disturbing” attack against a homeless person in Nanaimo on Saturday.
According to Nanaimo RCMP, a 45-year-old homeless man was accosted by group of people inside a black car around 9:30 p.m. while he pushed a shopping cart along Victoria Avenue near 102nd Street.
Cst Gary O’Brien said the small vehicle stopped next to the victim and exchanged words.
Multiple witnesses told police the driver of vehicle sped up and drove over the man knocking him to the ground.
“Witnesses said one of the occupants got out of the car and discharged pepper-spray at the victim as he lay on the ground,” said O’Brien.
The car then sped off. Witnesses were unable to obtain a license plate and the only description provided was that it was a small black car, possibly a GMC, and there were several occupants in it.
The homeless victim was taken to hospital with serious injuries. The area was closed for several hours while officers investigated.
“This incident is extremely troubling as it appears from all accounts the victim was targetted for being a marginalized person,” said O’Brien.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345, and quote file.
