An 88-year-old senior in New Westminster, B.C., suffered a shocking assault and robbery just steps from her home, leaving her family demanding justice in a once-safe neighborhood.
The Broad Daylight Attack
Sukh Sadhre reports that his mother was on her routine afternoon walk in the Queensborough area around 1:40 p.m. PT on Sunday, February 15, when a man pulled up in a car and tried to lure her closer. She ignored him and headed back toward her house, prompting the suspect to exit the vehicle and forcibly remove her bangles and necklace.
The incident, captured on camera and shared on social media by local MLA Steve Kooner, shows the much larger man knocking the woman to the ground as she fought back with her walking stick.
Injuries and Family Impact
Sadhre describes severe injuries to his mother’s hand, including ripped skin requiring 10 stitches and extensive bruising. “She’s still in a lot of pain on her left hand and remains deeply shocked by the unexpected violence,” he says.
The family has lived in the area since 1999, viewing it as a tight-knit, secure community. “Seniors should not live in fear,” Sadhre emphasizes. The stolen jewelry, an heirloom from his grandmother, was meant for future generations.
Police Hunt for Suspect
New Westminster Police Department spokesperson Sgt. Andrew Leaver labels the attack “cowardly,” noting it stands out from typical distraction thefts targeting jewelry. “This elderly woman deserves to walk her neighborhood safely. We aim to identify and arrest the suspect,” Leaver states.
Investigators are unclear on why the victim was targeted but are reviewing events before and after the robbery. The heavy-set suspect stands about five feet 11 inches tall, wore a beige hoodie, grey pants, black shoes with white soles, and a surgical mask. His vehicle appears in handout images.
Authorities urge anyone with information or CCTV footage to contact police immediately.
Calls for Enhanced Safety
Richmond-Queensborough Conservative MLA Steve Kooner deems the robbery unacceptable and presses for proactive measures. “The provincial government must act on public safety, not just react, to stay ahead of such crimes,” he says.
