VANCOUVER, B.C. - Vancouver police are investigating an early-morning break-and-enter at a downtown business after a witness reported seeing a man smash the storefront window with a skateboard and steal merchandise.

Vancouver Police Department officers responded to a business near Granville and Helmcken streets at approximately 6:45 a.m. on September 4 after receiving a report of a break-and-enter in progress.

According to police, a witness saw a man use a skateboard to smash the front window before entering the business and stealing merchandise.

Officers arrived within minutes, but the man had already left the area and was not located.

Police say the stolen merchandise was of relatively low financial value, while damage to the storefront is estimated at more than $1,000.

Investigators have obtained CCTV footage of the incident and are working to identify the suspect.

“The VPD shares the concerns of local business owners, workers, and residents regarding break-and-enters and street disorder in the downtown core,” Constable Darren Wong said. “We remain committed to working alongside these businesses to ensure that Granville remains a safe, vibrant, and welcoming destination for all.”

The investigation remains ongoing.

Source: Vancouver Police Department