Second-degree murder charges laid in random Vancouver stabbing

VANCOUVER — The Vancouver Police Department says a suspect has been charged with second-degree murder in the death of a man in Chinatown, following a five-week investigation by VPD personnel.

“This violent offence caused significant concern about crime and public safety in the neighbourhood,” said Constable Tania Visintin. “Our homicide team worked quickly to collect key evidence that led to the arrest of the suspect, and we hope this arrest will restore a sense of ease in the area.”

Nikolai Sugak, 32, was discovered gravely injured near West Pender and Carrall Street shortly after midnight on February 6. Despite emergency medical attention, he died a short time later. Police believe Sugak was stabbed by a stranger in nearby Shanghai Alley before walking out into the street and collapsing.

“We have found no evidence that the victim and his attacker knew each other or had any prior interactions before the murder,” adds Constable Visintin. “We believe they were strangers.”