1 person injured in ‘unprovoked’ assault in Vaughan, suspect outstanding

A York Regional Police vehicle is seen outside Upper Canada Mall in Newmarket on Nov. 15. (Simon Sheeham/CP24)

Police are searching for a male suspect following an “unprovoked” assault in Vaughan earlier this week.

The incident happened in a plaza parking lot near Mable Smith and Interchange ways, which is north of Highway 407 and west of Jane Street.

York Regional Police say they were called to the area just after 6 p.m. on Dec. 23 for a report of an assault.

Investigators say two people were walking when an unknown male approached them from behind, and grabbed one of them and assaulted them with a sharp object before fleeing.

The victim was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

The suspect is described as a male with a light complexion, in his late 30s to early 40s, approximately five foot 10 to six feet tall with a medium to heavy build, brown or black facial hair, and possibly brown or black hair. He was last seen wearing a dark-coloured toque, a blue and green plaid jacket, and dark pants.

Police in York Region are appealing to any witnesses or anyone who may have dashcam footage of the area around the time of the incident, to come forward.

Anyone with further information is asked to contact the #4 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7441, or Crime Stoppers anonymously.