Vancouver- The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) is investigating a series of violent shoplifting incidents that occurred in the downtown core over the weekend. At least five separate events were reported, during which suspects used weapons to threaten store employees.
Timeline of Incidents:
• Friday, 11 a.m.: A suspect threatened staff with bear spray to steal clothing.
• Friday, 7 p.m.: Bear spray was again used to intimidate employees, allowing a suspect to steal $11,000 worth of jackets.
• Saturday, 4:50 p.m.: An employee was assaulted with a small bat while a suspect stole clothing.
• Saturday, 5 p.m.: A suspect threatened staff with a knife and made off with stolen clothing.
• Sunday, 9 p.m.: A suspect used a knife to threaten employees while stealing food.
No arrests have been made, and investigators have not found evidence linking the incidents.