An 18-year-old woman was fatally stabbed and seven others injured in a series of attacks in North Vancouver, British Columbia, on September 28, 2023, at approximately 7:07 PM PDT. Authorities responded to multiple reports of stabbings near the Lonsdale Quay and Waterfront areas, triggering a large-scale police inquiry and a temporary lockdown of the SeaBus transit system.
The incident underscores a growing concern over violent crime in Canadian urban centers and raises questions about public safety and mental health support. The victim has been identified as Leticia Pedro,a student at Capilano University. The injured individuals, ranging in age, were transported to local hospitals; their conditions vary, but none are believed to be life-threatening as of September 29, 2023. Police have a suspect in custody, identified as Yonathan Betkolia, 21, who was apprehended at the scene.
According to RCMP spokesperson Sergeant Pamela Johnston, the suspect acted alone and there is no ongoing threat to public safety. “This appears to be a random act of violence,” Johnston stated during a press conference. “We are still in the early stages of the investigation and are working to determine the motive.”
Betkolia, a student at Simon Fraser University, has no prior criminal record. Investigators are exploring all possible factors, including mental health issues, that may have contributed to the attacks. The SeaBus service resumed normal operations on September 29, 2023, after being suspended for several hours while police conducted their investigation. Capilano University is offering counseling services to students and staff affected by the tragedy.
