New Westminster police are searching for witnesses who were Downtown early Sunday morning and may have seen or heard something suspicious.

The appeal for witnesses comes one day after a “serious assault” at Church and Columbia streets. Around 2:20 a.m. on Sunday, police were called to the area following reports of a man lying on the sidewalk, according to a media release.

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Initially, police believed the man was drunk but further investigation determined he is likely the victim of an assault. The victim, a 28-year-old from Surrey, was taken to hospital with life threatening injuries.

New West’s major crime unit has taken over the investigation and are looking to speak with anyone who may have been in the area of Church and Columbia streets in the early hours of Sunday, June 14.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Gareth Blount at 604-525-5411.