A man wielding a rifle and concealed by a balaclava stormed into the Pioneer's Pub Thursday evening and attacked a suspected drug dealer, according to an eyewitness account.
The targeted incident has led to two arrests, according to Richmond RCMP.
The witness told the Richmond News the gunman did not fire any shots but proceeded to target one patron and then seriously assaulted him with his weapon.
Prior to the assault, just before 8 p.m., it had been a family-friendly affair inside the "Pi" for a memorial, according to several accounts on social media.
When the gunman entered, one man yelled out, “he’s got a gun,” and patrons scrambled to the floor.
The witness said they fled via the back kitchen door. It was said amongst some patrons that the victim may have been involved in drug dealing and the apparent attack appears to be a message being sent amongst gang rivals.
The witness said an ambulance arrived to tend to the victim after being struck multiple times in the head with the rifle.
Richmond RCMP issued a statement Friday afternoon, indicating the victim and suspects are known to police.
“A 19-year old male and a 22-year old male are currently in custody in Richmond. The crime vehicle has been seized awaiting further analysis and investigation. The victim was transported to hospital and treated for non-life threatening injuries. He has not been cooperative with investigators,” stated police.
Police said they were able to catch the suspects in Vancouver, at Ross Street and Marine Drive, after issuing a broadcast to neighbouring police agencies.
The gunman fled in a light-coloured vehicle, with several other people. Vancouver Police located the vehicle around 9 p.m.
Pioneer Pub is located at Broadmoor shopping centre at No. 3 and Williams roads.
Police said they were initially told that shots were fired and there were hostages. This resulted in the pub being swarmed by at least a dozen police cars.
"Our investigators were able to confirm that no shots were fired, nor were any hostages involved," said Cpl. Dennis Hwang.
"These types of incidents are always treated very seriously and illustrate the dynamic and fluid circumstances that police must contend with on a daily basis. Further, it highlights the importance of accurate information."
