North Vancouver man arrested in California for attempted murder

Two Canadians, including a 25-year-old North Vancouver man, are at the centre of an alleged failed murder plot in California.

Police from Monterey County, Calif., say the man and his alleged accomplice from Angus, Ont., have both been arrested and charged with attempted murder and conspiracy to commit attempted murder — among other charges.

The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) says it received reports of a stabbing just before 10 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 25.

“Upon arrival, deputies were able to locate a total of three subjects who had all received injuries consistent with being stabbed. All three individuals were transported to a local hospital with minor to critical injuries and are expected to survive,” the sheriff’s office said.

MCSO says its detectives have learned that the North Vancouver suspect and a female stabbing victim had met through an online gaming platform, and the suspect flew from Canada to California because of her.

Police say he arrived at a residence in the county and knocked on the door while holding a package. The female victim’s boyfriend opened the door, and the suspect allegedly forced his way in and stabbed the man. Police say the female victim was injured and allegedly attacked while trying to defend her boyfriend.

“She received what we’re calling moderate injuries, and she was treated and released the same night of the incident,” Cmdr. Andres Rosas told 1130 NewsRadio.

“The boyfriend received critical injuries, and he was taken to a trauma centre locally.”

The suspect also reportedly sustained “moderate injuries” during the alleged struggle. Rosas says he was in “critical but stable condition” the last time he checked.

Police say the package that the suspect was carrying contained handcuffs, duct tape, and knives.

His suspected accomplice was initially contacted near the scene, reportedly denying knowledge of the incident. When police determined that he could be involved, the suspected accomplice was arrested the following morning on a flight preparing to return to Canada. 

The North Vancouver man is currently being held on $2,320,000 bail. His alleged accomplice is being held on $2,050,000 bail.

Rosas says both men appeared in court on Monday and pleaded not guilty. Both men are scheduled to appear in court again next week.