North Vancouver RCMP are hoping the teen who crashed his skateboard into a senior Monday night steps forward to take some responsibility.
The 70-year-old man was crossing an alley in the 100-block of West 15th Street around 9 p.m. when the skater lost control on a speed bump and knocked him to the ground, breaking his wrist and forearm in four places. The skater offered a "trite" apology and then fled, according to police.
"(The victim) was in the hospital's (ER) all night and I'm told he was in a lot of pain," said Cpl. Richard De Jong, North Vancouver RCMP spokesman.
Police describe the skater as roughly 16 years old, five foot eight, wearing a red shirt, white shorts and red helmet.
The victim declined numerous requests to be interviewed by Lower Mainland media but De Jong said he does have a message for the teen.
"Wherever he is, he wishes (the skater) would have stuck around, done the right thing and at least offered some support. It's bad behaviour, is what he says," De Jong said.
There are no criminal charges that would apply to the young man but De Jong said someone in that position could face bylaw infraction tickets for skating without due care and attention, which carries with it a $45 fine.
Though police are asking for more witnesses to come forward and would like to hear from anyone who can offer a tip based on the suspect's description, there is one sure way to resolve the matter, De Jong said.
"The person knows himself. Hopefully he'll come forward and have a chat with us," De Jong said.
