Arrest made in Facebook Marketplace pepper spray attack: New Westminster police

Police in New Westminster say they arrested a suspect in connection with an assault that took place during a Facebook Marketplace sale one month ago.

The victim reported that on July 7, he met a person in Columbia Square to sell an iPhone, but was given counterfeit bills, police said at the time. The suspect then allegedly pepper sprayed the seller and fled the scene in a white Tesla.

On Wednesday night, police arrested the individual believed to be responsible.

“This arrest was made possible thanks in large part to the work of our Forensic Identification Unit,” Sgt. Andrew Leaver said in a news release announcing the arrest Friday.

“Their efforts played a major role in confirming the suspect’s involvement. We’re also grateful to the Abbotsford Police Department for their support, providing valuable information that assisted in moving this investigation forward.”

The department says it is now looking into similar incidents to see if they are linked to the same suspect.

Police reminded residents that selling items via online platforms like Facebook Marketplace can carry risks, and said anyone can use the New Westminster Police Department lobby, which has security cameras, to carry out transactions.