The man accused of a random stabbing spree in Vancouver's West End was supported by five friends on Thursday when he made another brief court appearance.

Jerome Bonneric, 33, is charged with 12 counts of assault after eight people, including one police officer, were injured in the attacks at an apartment building on Jan. 31.

Appearing in Vancouver provincial court, the French national looked shaky, but waved to his friends, who had joined the French Deputy Consul General in the gallery.

Bonneric's lawyer, Bob Bellows says his client is aware of his friends' support.

"His friends are standing by him and they care deeply for him.

"His parents care deeply for him, they've been in contact with him. He's had a phone call to his mom and dad in France. Everything that can be done is being done," he said.

Bellows describes his client as having had a horrible mental breakdown, but would not give details.

Bonneric was arrested inside the building on Barclay Street in Vancouver's downtown West End a short time after the victims were stabbed.

Police say they believe he was visiting a friend there at the time of the attacks. He was not previously known to police and police say he did not know the victims.

Three men and three women were rushed to hospital with serious injuries after the attack. Four have since been released. Two young women who remain in hospital are expected to survive.

Bonneric's next hearing has been scheduled for Feb. 27.