Vancouver Police arrested seven people for breach of peace following the Breakout Riot at the PNE on September 18.
The last-minute cancellation of rap performer Lil Baby sparked violence and widespread property damage with approximately 1,000 members of the 5,200 crowd reportedly overturning food vendor kiosks, tables, tents, and refrigerators, looting, and getting into fights in the Hastings-Sunrise neighbourhood.
VPD immediately launched a criminal investigation and has now introduced an online video portal and a dedicated tip line to help identify suspects.
“Video evidence and eyewitness accounts will form a critical part of this investigation, as we work to identify people who destroyed property, engaged in violent behaviour, and put everyone’s safety at risk,” says Sergeant Steve Addison in a recent press release.
The police are asking anyone with video or photos of the incident to come forward and submit them for review via their website.
“This is likely to be a long and difficult investigation, but we are committed to identifying and pursuing criminal charges against those who acted violently, destroyed property, and put other concert-goers in danger,” he says.
There were no serious injuries reported after the riot but it is estimated that the damages are in excess of $200,000. The PNE and Breakout Festival have both made statements apologizing to the concertgoers who left peacefully and the surrounding neighbourhood.
People can upload videos to the online portal or call the tip line at 604-717-4021.
With files from Brendan Kergin.
