35-year-old man arrested, charged for allegedly robbing a fast-food restaurant in Abbotsford

ABBOTSFORD – Police in Abbotsford say a 35-year-old man has been arrested and charged after he allegedly assaulted a fast-food restaurant employee during a robbery in Abbotsford last week.

In a statement, police say AbbyPD Patrol officers responded to reports of a robbery in progress at a restaurant in the 2000 block of Whatcom Road last Thursday, Oct. 15 just before 7:30 p.m.

Investigators concluded that a lone male suspect entered the business, physically assaulted an employee, and fled with money stolen from the restaurant. Fortunately, the employee didn’t suffer any serious injuries.

Officers immediately responded to the area and located the suspect leaving on a motorcycle. Attempts to stop the motorcycle in the Sumas Prairie area were unsuccessful. Due to the manner in which the suspect was driving and the risk to public safety, police did not initiate a pursuit.

Through the prompt actions of responding officers, the suspect was quickly identified as 35-year-old Walther De Bruin.

With the assistance of the Vancouver Police Department, De Bruin was located and arrested in the Burnaby area later that evening.

De Bruin has been charged with robbery, disguise with intent, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, and flight from police.

“Violent crime can have a significant and lasting impact on victims, employees, and the broader community,” said Sergeant. Paul Walker. “Our officers moved quickly to identify and locate the suspect, ensuring he was brought before the courts. AbbyPD remains committed to supporting victims, protecting our community, and holding offenders accountable for their actions.”