Vancouver Police have launched an investigation after “violent confrontations” broke out at a Vancouver trans rights rally on March 31st marking the International Transgender Day of Visibility.
In a statement, police say that they believe at least two people were assaulted rally-goers confronted a group of counter-protesters inside Grandview Park. Between 75 and 100 people had gathered at the park when the confrontations broke out.
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“Detectives from VPD’s Robbery, Assault and Arson Unit have been assigned to conduct a full investigation, which will include a review of bystander video, eyewitness accounts, and victim statements.”
“The investigation will consider all of the circumstances surrounding the incidents.”
VPD is sharing parts of video and images posted online by a victim, with hopes more people who witnessed the altercations will come forward with information.
In the first video, a person holding trans and Pride flags can be seen screaming profanity at the victim before punching them.
A second video shows a group of people yelling, “go home,” before a person wearing a camouflage jacket shoves another person to the ground.
“Investigators believe there may be additional witnesses who have not spoken to police, as well as bystander video that may show different perspectives of what occurred.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 604-717-2541.