Suspect charged in ‘random’ Vancouver attacks that left 1 dead, 1 with a severed hand

A man has been charged in connection with two violent stranger attacks in downtown Vancouver on Wednesday, which left one man dead and another with a severed hand.

Brendan Colin McBride, 34, of White Rock, has been charged with murder and aggravated assault, according to court documents.

The attacks began around 7:30 a.m., when police were called to Cathedral Square at Richards and Dunsmuir streets, where a man in his 50s was found with severe head injuries and a severed hand. Authorities confirmed that doctors were able to reattach the man’s hand, but noted that he will face long-term physical and emotional challenges.

Minutes later, police responded to a second incident outside the Queen Elizabeth Theatre at West Georgia and Hamilton streets, where a man in his 70s was found with fatal injuries.

McBride was arrested on Habitat Island near the Olympic Village after a 911 caller reported erratic behavior.

Vancouver Police Chief Adam Palmer described the attacks as “random” and stated that McBride has a long history of mental health issues, with over 60 documented police interactions across Metro Vancouver. McBride's criminal record includes a 2023 assault conviction in White Rock and a guilty plea in 2022 for assault causing bodily harm in a 2021 North Vancouver case.

Bryan Ide, a local resident, laid flowers at the scene of the fatal attack, expressing sorrow for the man who lost his life. “I didn’t know this gentleman, but I felt his life shouldn’t just be forgotten,” he said.

The incident has shaken Vancouver, where public safety and crime are becoming significant political issues. Chief Palmer reassured residents, citing a 50% drop in stranger attacks since 2022 and reductions in violent crime and assaults. However, he emphasized the need for stronger measures to address serious mental health issues and prevent repeat offenses.

Bridgitte Anderson, president of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, highlighted that despite declining crime statistics, many people and businesses still feel unsafe. She urged government collaboration on a public safety action plan.

Premier David Eby said the government will review the incident to see if anything could have been done differently and announced upcoming policies focused on providing "more assertive care" for those with severe mental health and addiction issues.

McBride remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 18.