A 75-year-old man who was struck while riding his motorized scooter in what Vancouver police say was a “vehicle ramming” earlier this month has died of his injuries.
The incident happened around 5:30 a.m. PT on May 15 in the city’s West End, and left the victim with critical injuries.
Two police officers, one of them a recruit constable on his second day of work, were also injured.
On Wednesday, police confirmed the man had died on May 24.
The victim was identified by family members as Johnny Sudds.
In a statement, Sudds’s family said that the family was grieving “in the shadow of the strange violent act” that saw him killed.
“During this time, we ask others to keep their thoughts on Johnny, the loss many of us feel, and the journey toward healing,” the statement reads.
Family members said in the statement that a small shrine at the corner of Comox and Bute streets, where Sudds was struck, saw friends and neighbours leaving notes and flowers in honour of Sudds.
“While Johnny was in hospital, we took the notes to him. It provided us much comfort, and the shrine continues to do so,” the statement read.
“If you are feeling blue, we encourage you to visit the shrine. Johnny will be happy to see you there.”
Police previously said they were called to the scene following reports of someone “driving erratically” near Comox and Broughton streets, striking a variety of objects including the Nelson Park dog area.
Multiple witnesses told police they had to scramble to evade the vehicle.
Const. Darren Wong, a VPD spokesperson, said the alleged ramming caused carnage in the West End that day.
“It’s definitely not something that we’re used to, especially for a quiet and peaceful West End neighbourhood,” he said.
Investigators say the suspect was finally stopped after he rammed a police cruiser and flipped his own vehicle.
Police are investigating mental health and drug use as possible factors in the incident.
Tadd Bali, 34, is charged with four counts of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm.
Police said they are now submitting evidence to prosecutors for consideration of additional charges.
