A man charged with aggravated assault for allegedly pushing a 70-year-old man into a SkyTrain earlier this year says he will represent himself in court after pleading not guilty.
Tyler Dane Meetoos appeared before Vancouver Provincial Court Judge Reginald Harris on Oct. 16.
The incident happened on March 11 just before 3 p.m., according to Metro Vancouver Transit Police.
"A senior was waiting on the platform to board a SkyTrain at Granville Station in Vancouver," police said. "He heard yelling from behind him, but didn’t respond.”
As the train arrived, he was "violently pushed forward," police said.
"The train had not yet come to a complete stop when the victim was pushed, so yes, the train was still in motion, just not full speed," Const. Amanda Steed said. "The force of the push sent him head first into the side of the train."
Passengers stepped in between him and the suspect.
The suspect then fled the scene while witnesses called 911.
The victim underwent surgery for head and facial injuries.
Police arrested Meetoos several days later.
He has been issued a no-go order for SkyTrain stations.
Defence lawyer Christina Godlewska told Harris she would need time to prepare for trial.
“You’re sure you don’t want a lawyer for any of this?” Harris asked Meetoos.
“That’s correct, Your Honour,” Meetoos replied.
Meetoos also faces charges of uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm and possession of a knife for a dangerous purpose in connection to Nov. 26, 2023 incidents.
The case returns to court in two weeks to confirm future appearance dates.
With files from Brendan Kergin
