Comox Valley RCMP have a suspect in custody following a serious assault near a local park over the weekend.
RCMP received a 911-call around 11:35 a.m. on Sunday, August 10, with a woman screaming her husband had been attacked near Lewis Park in Courtenay.
Police arrived at the scene and located an elderly man on the ground and was bleeding heavily from his face.
A witness helped identify the suspect who was standing a short distance away and was taken into custody.
Officer in charge of the Comox Valley RCMP Inspector Scott Mercer said it was a senseless attack on a vulnerable member of the community.
“We are grateful to witnesses who stepped forward to help and to those who provided critical information that led to the quick arrest of the suspect.”
45-year-old Melvin Teagai has been charged with aggravated assault and robbery and remains in custody pending his next court appearance.
The victim suffered serious injuries that aren’t believed to be life-threatening and is expected to recover.
