Kamloops RCMP have charged a 33-year-old after an armed robbery at the U District Liquor Store yesterday afternoon, where the store clerk was seriously injured after being slashed with a knife.

William Paul Bolton is facing attempted murder, aggravated assault, and robbery charges. He is in custody at the Kamloops RCMP Detachment.

Police say after the released surveillance photos of the suspect there were several sightings reported to them.

“From the time of the offence and through the night of March 19, RCMP members searched for the suspect,” said Staff Sgt. Simon Pillay, noting the suspect was arrested without incident in the area of Arrowstone Drive after police were called to reports of a suspicious man in a backyard.

“This robbery involved a disturbing level of unprovoked and unnecessary violence. From the moment RCMP were engaged, it was a priority case to resolve,” Pillay added.

“Once again, the public greatly assisted us with the investigation by providing information on sightings, identity and ultimately leading us to him today. The RCMP thank the community for their engagement during these otherwise challenging times.”

Police have released new photos of William Bolton to further advance the investigation. If you’ve seen him in the last 24 hours, you’re asked to contact Kamloops RCMP.