German tourist visiting Vancouver hospitalized after being assaulted in unprovoked attack

VANCOUVER — Police in Vancouver say a 29-year-old man has been arrested for his alleged role following a pair of unprovoked assaults over the B.C. Day long weekend in Vancouver.

According to a statement from police, a 40-year-old man was walking near Granville Street and West Pender Street on Sunday, August 3 at about 11:40 a.m., when he was approached by a stranger who allegedly pushed him several times before walking away. Moments later, the same suspect reportedly approached a couple walking along Granville Street and violently threw one of them to the ground before fleeing on foot.

Police say witnesses saw the incident and chased the suspect to a nearby lane, where they held him until police arrived minutes later.

The female victim, a 30-year-old woman visiting from Germany, was treated in hospital for minor physical injuries.

Police have identified the assailant as Daniel James Johnny, 29, who has been charged with assault by choking and two counts of assault. He remains in custody.