Police looking to identify and help assault victim in New Westminster

A photo shows the back of a New Westminster police officer's jacket. (Twitter, New Westminster Police Department)

Police in New Westminster are looking to speak with and support the victim of an assault that took place in the city Friday evening.

In a release issued Saturday morning, the New Westminster Police Department said its officers were called to the assault at Seventh Avenue and Fourth Street by a witness around 4:45 p.m.

Officers arrived and arrested a suspect, but the victim of the attack had already left the scene, police said.

Sgt. Andrew Leaver said police are hoping to support the victim, give them the opportunity to share their version of events and “hold the suspect accountable” for their actions.

“If it’s more comfortable for you, we can arrange to meet at your home or a place of your choosing,” he said.

“Your account is vital to our investigation and can make a real difference in preventing similar incidents in the future.”

Anyone in the area who witnessed the assault and is still to speak to police is asked to call 604-525-5411, and reference file 25-988.