Police identify man killed in Chinatown stabbing as local chef

The victim of a fatal stabbing in Vancouver's Chinatown neighbourhood has been identified as Wataru Kakiuchi, a 32-year-old chef.

Kakiuchi, who worked at Hapa Izakaya in nearby Yaletown, was found injured near Union and Main streets just before 3:30 a.m. PT Wednesday, according to police. He died before he could be taken to hospital, police said.

Mayor Ken Sim said police have increased police presence around the area. He called the killing a "senseless act of violence" and said Kakiuchi was more than a talented chef.

"He was a positive presence and a cherished friend to many. His contributions to our community will not be forgotten," Sim said in a news release Thursday.

"On behalf of the City of Vancouver, I extend my deepest condolences to Mr. Kakiuchi's family, friends and colleagues. We stand with you in this time of sorrow and grief."

Police say they have not yet made any arrests in the case, nor have they determined a motive for the attack.

Friend and co-worker Yoshihiro Tanabe said he wasn't able to sleep after finding out about Kakiuchi's sudden death and has been trying to process it. 

"Why Wataru?" Tanabe said. "He's so perfect."

Hapa Izakaya owner Justin Ault said the news felt like "a kick in the stomach." 

Ault remembers Kakiuchi as a positive person who got along with everyone and was a "shockingly good" musician. He said the former chef was waiting on a new work permit to return to the restaurant. 

"For some of the people in the kitchen, he was a real brother," Ault said. "Words can't describe how sad we are."