Whistler RCMP investigate second stabbing on May long weekend

Whistler RCMP are investigating a second stabbing of a young man in two nights over the May long weekend, despite attempts to reduce violence in what has become a notoriously rowdy holiday in the resort town.

Police were called at about midnight on Sunday and found a 19-year-old man stabbed multiple times on Whistler Way outside the village in Whistler, B.C.

The victim, who is from the Lower Mainland but has not been publicly identified, was sent to Vancouver for medical treatment, said Sgt. Rob Knapton.

• Luka Gordic, Whistler stabbing victim, identified by family

Another 19-year-old man was fatally wounded the night before in another stabbing incident. The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team is investigating that death, and several suspects are in custody.

Knapton said Monday the two stabbings did not appear to be related.

"I would say these calls are very unusual. This is the first death we've seen like this in quite a long time," he said.

"As far as the other [non-fatal stabbing] goes, it is a little troubling for us, but it is one that we prepare for."

Extra police brought in for May long weekend

Whistler RCMP brought in extra police from Vancouver and Squamish in anticipation of problems this May long weekend.

Last year, there were four violent incidents including one 19-year-old man from Surrey slashed in the face.

"May long weekend is historically a busier weekend for us in Whistler ... when we see a huge amount of youth coming into town" and roaming the village in groups, said Knapton.

"This has been known and identified as something that we'd like to change in the community."

Two years ago, the resort municipality formed a task force to address what a local paper, The Pique, described as "ongoing mayhem" on the long weekend.

'We shouldn't have to feel like this ... in our own town'

Despite the violence this year, Knapton said the increased police presence had helped — including arrests of several  suspects "within minutes" of the fatal stabbing Saturday night.

A private security guard said he thought the increased police presence overnight was "a very positive step."

"I was out the other night at about 1:30 and I was noticing any time there were groups around ... two or three cars would approach them and question them with whether they're carrying open booze, what are they doing, what's their agenda," said Tim Houlihan of Sea-to-Sky Security.

However, several residents told CBC News they were frustrated with young drunk visitors roaming the streets.

"Those who live here know to stay away from the village at that time," said Alexa McLaughlin, who grew up in Whistler and works in the village.

"We shouldn't have to feel like this ... we shouldn't have to worry about being stabbed or shot ... in our own town."

Police are looking to speak with witnesses to the Sunday night incident. Anyone with information can contact Whistler RCMP at 604-932-3044, or Crimestoppers.