Police say senior critically hurt in alleged assault outside Surrey Central Station

A 78-year-old woman is in stable but critical condition after an alleged assault outside Surrey Central Station, Metro Vancouver Transit Police say.

Officers were called shortly after 3 p.m. Tuesday. Investigators allege a man forcefully shoulder-checked the woman from behind, knocking her down. Police say she struck her head on a concrete wall and the pavement and was taken to hospital with serious head injuries.

A suspect was identified and arrested later that evening. Evan Michael Scott Abbott is charged with aggravated assault and remains in custody pending a bail hearing.

Transit police thanked two witnesses who called 911, stayed with the victim and gave statements to investigators. Const. Sunny Kainth said their assistance was appreciated.