Vancouver Crown approves charges after alleged random downtown attack

Crown Counsel has approved charges after a woman was allegedly randomly attacked with a weapon in downtown Vancouver yesterday.

Police say the woman was walking near Hastings Street and Seymour Street shortly before 11 a.m. when she was approached by a man she did not know. The man allegedly struck her in the abdomen and left the area. A witness followed the suspect and called 911.

Police found and arrested the suspect nearby. The woman was taken to hospital and treated for injuries that were not life-threatening.

William Pitt, 49, has been charged with one count each of assault with a weapon and assault causing bodily harm. He was detained following a bail hearing and remains in custody.