Residents of Vancouver's West End are reeling after a homeless man known for his gentle nature was brutally attacked, leaving him hospitalized with serious injuries for nearly a month.
A Beloved Community Member Goes Missing
Mike Pearson and his wife, Lorna Seifried, grew concerned when the man they knew as Tom vanished from his usual spot. For over 15 years, Tom had been a fixture near the Georgia Street pedestrian underpass at the north end of Stanley Park, his life's belongings stored in three or four grocery carts lashed together and covered with tarps.
"Number one, he didn't like leaving his stash of gear at all," said Pearson, noting the man's conspicuous absence was immediately alarming. Along with about a dozen other neighbours, the couple had formed an informal support network, bringing Tom hot meals—McDonald's chicken McNuggets were a favourite—along with non-perishable food and warm socks over the years.
A Shocking Discovery and a Police Investigation
Their worry prompted Seifried to file a missing person's report with the Vancouver Police Department. That's when they received the devastating news: Tom had been the victim of a vicious assault and was in the hospital.
According to Vancouver Police Constable Steve Addison, the attack occurred on November 21 at approximately 9 p.m. Two people assaulted the 56-year-old man, who lives in the park, inflicting serious injuries. The VPD's major crime section is leading the investigation, but no arrests have been made and a motive remains unknown.
"The victim sustained serious injuries," Addison confirmed via email. He added that police have spoken to the man, but "that process has been slowed due to the nature of his injuries." The man remains in hospital, unable to return to his community.
A Community Rallies and Seeks Closure
Pearson emphasizes that Tom was more than just a homeless person; he was part of the neighbourhood's social fabric. "I have to emphasize that he's a part of this community," Pearson stated. The man, also known as Jimmy to some, never asked for money but would occasionally request a meal or groceries from Safeway. In return, he sometimes offered simple pieces of Chinese medical advice, like the importance of stretching.
Now, Pearson and others are trying to locate which hospital is treating Tom so they can visit him. In a practical act of care, Pearson arranged for Stanley Park rangers to place Tom's belongings into storage on Wednesday, safeguarding them for when he is able to reclaim them.
The case highlights the vulnerabilities faced by those living on the streets and the bonds that can form within urban communities. As the police investigation continues slowly, the West End residents who looked out for their gentle neighbour await justice and hope for his recovery.
