Man Arrested Following Vandalism of Surrey Pride Crosswalk

A Surrey man has been arrested after a rainbow Pride crosswalk was defaced with spray paint, marking a major development in an investigation that sparked concern across the community.

The incident drew widespread attention after video footage of the vandalism surfaced online. Now, police say they expect to send a report to Crown Counsel for charge review within days.

Crosswalk Targeted in Broad Daylight

The vandalism took place on May 30 at the intersection of Old Yale Road and University Drive in Surrey.

Shortly before 4 p.m., officers responded to reports of damage at the location. When they arrived, they found a rainbow-coloured Pride crosswalk covered with black spray paint.

As a result, Surrey Police Service launched an investigation to identify those involved.

Video Helps Investigators Identify Suspects

Soon after the incident, investigators reviewed video footage that appeared online. The video allegedly showed three individuals taking part in the act.

Police say the footage was posted by Amrit Birring, leader of the Freedom Party of British Columbia. In the recording, Birring and another man appear to spray black paint onto the Pride crosswalk, while a third person holds a placard nearby.

Because of the video evidence, officers identified three people of interest connected to the case.

One Suspect Arrested

Police have confirmed that one man has been arrested. However, investigators have not revealed which of the three individuals was taken into custody.

At this stage, no formal charges have been laid.

Even so, Surrey Police Service says investigators expect to forward their findings to Crown Counsel in the coming days for charge assessment.

Following his arrest, the suspect was released under several conditions while the legal process continues.

Political Figure Previously Ran in Elections

Birring has previously sought elected office at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels.

Most recently, he ran in the 2024 provincial election in Surrey-Newton, where he received 163 votes. He has also campaigned for the position of Surrey mayor in the past.

Community Group Condemns the Incident

Surrey Pride strongly criticized the vandalism, calling it an act motivated by hate.

In a statement shared on Facebook, the organization said the incident had been reported to both police and the mayor’s office.

The group emphasized the importance of protecting symbols that represent inclusion, diversity, and support for the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Investigation Remains Active

Police continue to gather information as the case moves forward.

Anyone who may have details related to the incident is encouraged to contact Surrey Police Service through its non-emergency line and reference file number 26-54029 (SP).

Meanwhile, community members are watching closely as authorities determine whether criminal charges will follow.