A Surrey man is in police custody after allegedly assaulting a 71-year-old Kamloops security guard, Glen Warner, at Riverside Park last Thursday, July 2.

Police say the 33-year-old suspect was taken into custody today.

Warner’s son Jason told NL News his father was on duty at the park when he was punched in the face by a man on a bike who was disturbing a city worker. He noted his father had to have surgery as the attack left him with a concussion and a broken orbital bone.

“A local community member spotted the assailant and contacted police and then called me,” Jason wrote on facebook Tuesday evening. “So many tips came in identifying the possible assailant. The local hero followed him until police sent the detachment to arrest him. He fled but was caught.”

RCMP Staff Sgt. Ed Preto says the suspect, who’s name hasn’t yet been released, is being held in custody.

“All findings from the investigation [will be forwarded] to the British Columbia Prosecution Service for review and consideration of charge approval,” Preto said.

Jason added that once charges are laid, the family will have another update. He also noted that a new officer was assigned to the case after the initial officer – Cst. Christopher Squire – did not file a police report until Sunday, July 5, depsite speaking to Glen on the day of the assault.

“The RCMP officers assigned to the case as of yesterday and today were fast and efficient, showing care to my family,” Jason said.

“I can say the locals and police of Kamloops really took this to heart and because of them, we have a possible offender, one less risk to the public off the street.”