Sarnia Police are thanking the public for a number of tips that helped lead to the arrest of a suspect involved in an unprovoked assault earlier this week.
“We are deeply appreciative of the information received from the public to help us resolve this assault,” Sarnia Police Chief Derek Davis said in a news release, pointing to the arrest of a 16-year-old male in connection to the attack that occurred Sunday afternoon.
Officers were called to a report of a 66-year-old man who was attacked from behind while walking on the sidewalk on Talfourd Street near Queen Street. The victim was attacked from behind and struck in the face multiple times, causing bruising, abrasions and swelling. Immediately following the attack, the suspect fled on foot.
“Sarnia Police officers canvassed the area and located security footage capturing this assault,” police added. “This was released to the public generating multiple leads.”
Members of the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) followed up and identified a 16-year-old male youth as the person responsible.
On March 12, CID officers executed a search warrant on the suspect’s residence, seizing evidence of the original assault, and locating the suspect inside, police added.
“Upon police presence being known, the youth attempted to flee and hide within the house. He fought with police, striking one officer in the mouth (no injury) before being taking into custody.”
“Our investigation continues as we try to ascertain the motivation behind this senseless attack,” Davis added.
The youth faces charges of assault, assaulting a police officer, and resisting arrest.
Further investigation revealed the youth was identified as being responsible for a break and enter to a Cathcart residence in February 2024.
He faces additional charges of break, enter and theft; and trespass by night.
Police are asking members of the public to remove any social media posts of the youth involved.