A man is in custody in connection with one of the most disturbing crimes in Vancouver in 2021.

On August 5, an East Vancouver resident, Gilles Hebert, was badly beaten in broad daylight in Grandview Park near Commercial Drive.

Hebert, 60, died in hospital that evening after being left unconscious in the attack around 1:30 p.m.

Today (January 3), Vancouver police announced that the B.C. Prosecution has approved a charge of manslaughter against Jeff Arnie Lincoln, 39.

Lincoln was arrested on New Year's Day and remains in custody.

The Crown's allegation has not been proven in court.

Hebert was survived by his partner, David, and six siblings.

"He was treasured by so many people who knew his kind, gentle soul," his obituary stated. "He was a pillar of his community. Loved by everyone who knew him, always there with a helping hand and a sympathetic ear for whatever they may need.

"He loved volunteering at Britannia Community Centre where he had so many friends," the obituary continued. "He had underused talents; good with his hands, he loved sculpting stone and wood and did carpentry work. If something needed fixing, he was your handyman."