Suspects sought in ‘targeted and completely unacceptable’ BB gun attack on Vancouver Island

Investigators have released surveillance images of a vehicle they believe was involved in the shooting. (Handout)

Mounties on Vancouver Island are searching for suspects after a pedestrian was reportedly shot in the face with a BB gun in what police described as a “targeted and completely unacceptable” attack on a vulnerable person.

The shooting occurred shortly after 3:30 p.m. on May 4, when a man was walking near 680 Cliffe Ave., in downtown Courtenay.

A statement Friday from the Comox Valley RCMP says the man was hit with a projectile and sustained a minor injury just below his eye.

Investigators have released surveillance images of a vehicle they believe was involved in the shooting. Police said the vehicle’s licence plate was not visible in any images obtained from the area.

“The suspect is believed to have been the front passenger of a four-door orange/red Toyota sedan carrying three or more occupants,” the statement said. “The vehicle was last seen travelling up 8th Street.”

The RCMP is asking anyone with information or images related to the case to contact the Comox Valley detachment at 250-338-1321.

“This appears to be a targeted and completely unacceptable act of violence against a vulnerable member of our community,” said Const. Monika Terragni in the statement.

“We are asking anyone who recognizes this vehicle or has information about those involved to come forward.”

Anonymous tips can be provided to police through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or comoxvalleycrimestoppers.bc.ca.