Asian woman allegedly assaulted at UBC; RCMP looking for witnesses

An alleged unprovoked assault happened on an Asian woman at the University of British Columbia (UBC) over the weekend, according to University RCMP.

In a news release, Mounties said an unidentified man approached the woman who was taking the garbage out in the alley located behind the 5700 block of University Boulevard last Saturday, March 27, at around 8:10 p.m. Police reported that the man used a “racial term” against the woman and then “punched” her in the head and stomach.

Mounties said the suspect ran in an unknown direction and the victim hid to call 911. The woman was brought to a hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

“This investigation is in the early stages and we are not ruling any motives including that this crime had an element of bias or hate involved,” it said.

The suspect was described to be of medium build and tall. He was seen wearing a hoodie, sweat pants, runners, and a dark face mask.

Those who may have witnessed the incident are encouraged to come forward and call the University RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

Meanwhile, UBC quoted its president, Santa Ono, in a series of tweets, saying, he was “horrified” to learn about the incident.

“We must continue to work together to affirm our commitment to challenge all forms of racism and discrimination,” he continued.