A troubling series of events unfolded at Ocean Garden Restaurant in Chinatown early this morning.
The restaurant, located in the 500-block of Fisgard Street, was first targeted at approximately 8:30 a.m. when a man smashed through the front door of the business with a brick and attempted to steal live crabs.
The theft was thwarted by a witness who alerted the police and managed to convince the suspect to return the crabs before fleeing the scene.
VicPD were able to identify the suspect and located and arrested the suspect within two hours.
The suspect was released with conditions not to return to the business and to attend a future court date. However, after his release, the situation progressed.
Less than four hours later, at about 2 p.m., the same individual returned to Ocean Garden and threw a smoke grenade inside the restaurant during the busy lunch rush, which was packed with around 30 customers.
The grenade caused chaos but, fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The suspect has reportedly admitted to targeting restaurants that sell live seafood, and Ocean Garden has temporarily ceased selling crabs as a precaution.
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“We believe the individual is determined to shut us down. As a result we will not be serving OR selling crabs for the time being,” said Ocean Garden.
The restaurant’s management also expressed frustration and concern over the effectiveness of the justice system, citing the suspect’s repeated attacks despite prior arrest.
“My family, my staff and community are beyond petrified that there are people who are out to tear local businesses down.”
VicPD said they are actively seeking witnesses or additional information regarding the incident.
They urge anyone with relevant details to contact the E-Comm Report Desk at 250-995-7654, referencing file number 24-28443.
Despite the setbacks, Ocean Garden remains determined to continue to operate and serve the community.
