Vancouver Whitecaps FC is calling for the “toughest punishment possible” for the perpetrators of what it is describing as a “racially motivated attack” on three of its academy players in Burnaby on the weekend.
“Enough is enough,” reads a statement put out by the soccer club Sunday. “We are heartbroken and sickened by the allegations and strongly condemn all forms of discrimination, racism and hate. Such disgusting behaviour has absolutely no place in our community. We will do everything to support our players affected.”
The Whitecaps said three of its academy players had been assaulted at an outdoor gathering on Saturday night, and one had been sent to hospital but is expected to make a full recovery after surgery.
The club said one suspect had been arrested and Burnaby RCMP is leading an investigation into the incident.
The detachment put out a news release Sunday saying a 17-year-old had been stabbed near Hastings Street and Kensington Avenue – about a block from Burnaby North Secondary School – at approximately 11:40 p.m. Saturday during a “confrontation” between several people.
The victim was sent to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to police.
The release said a 17-year-old boy from Burnaby was then located and arrested with help from a police dog.
Police don’t believe the suspect and victim were known to each other, according to the release.
“The circumstances of the incident are still under investigation and investigators are working to determine a motive,” stated the release.
Anyone with information is asked to call Burnaby RCMP at 604-646-9999. Reference file number 21-28918.
Because of the age of the people involved, Burnaby RCMP would not confirm the stabbing was the same incident referred to in the Whitecaps statement.
The NOW has reached out to the Whitecaps and is waiting for a response.
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