Coquitlam RCMP Issue Warning After Elderly Man Assaulted in Home Invasion

The Coquitlam RCMP is urgently warning the public following a disturbing and violent home invasion that left an elderly man physically assaulted and robbed by a suspect impersonating a police officer.

The Home Invasion

The terrifying incident took place on May 22 at a residence located in the 2700 block of Nadina Drive. According to the police report, the elderly victim was asleep and awoke to find a stranger standing inside his home. The intruder physically assaulted the homeowner and forcibly confined him.

Before fleeing the scene, the suspect stole the victim's cell phone, credit cards, and his vehicle. Once the elderly man was finally able to free himself from confinement, he immediately contacted the police to report the crime.

Suspect Posing as Police and Tradesperson

Adding to the severity of the crime, the suspect was wearing items designed to make him look like a law enforcement officer. He was seen wearing a dark baseball hat featuring the letters "RCMP" and a logo, along with a lanyard holding a badge or emblem. The suspect is further described as a Caucasian male, approximately 5'10" to 5'11" tall, weighing 250 pounds, with a muscular and rotund build. He was clean-shaven and wore black-rimmed glasses, a white short-sleeved golf shirt, blue and white running shoes, and tan leather gloves.

Investigators also learned that earlier that same day, a man matching the suspect's description spoke with a neighbor. During that interaction, the suspect claimed to be a tradesperson and specifically asked questions about the elderly victim and his residence.

“We are alerting the public to this incident as the suspect was allegedly wearing items that identified him as a police officer,” said Sergeant Adriana O’Malley, Coquitlam RCMP Media Relations Officer. “While this individual was not a police officer, the use of police-related clothing is troubling. We urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.”

Search for Stolen Vehicle

The suspect is believed to be driving the victim's stolen vehicle. Police are asking the public to be on the lookout for a green 2022 Hyundai Kona bearing the British Columbia license plate AWE311. Authorities warn the public not to approach the vehicle if spotted, but to call 9-1-1 immediately.

Anyone with information regarding this ongoing investigation is urged to contact the Coquitlam RCMP at 604-945-1550 and quote file number 2026-12958.

Preventing Impersonator Crimes

Criminals sometimes pose as tradespeople, utility workers, or even police officers to gain trust and access to homes. Protect yourself with these tips:

• Verify Identity: If someone claims to be a police officer or utility worker, ask to see official photo identification. Genuine professionals will gladly provide it.
• Call the Organization: If you are still unsure about a person's identity, look up the official phone number for the organization they claim to represent and call to verify their presence in your area. Do not use a phone number provided by the individual.
• Do Not Open the Door: You are not obligated to open your door to strangers. Communicate through a locked door or window if you feel unsafe.
• Report Suspicious Inquiries: If a stranger asks unusual questions about your neighbors or their schedules, report the interaction to the police immediately.