On January 4th 2025, at 6:54 pm, officers were called to a church at Christina Street and London Road for an assault report.
Police met with the victim who had been alone inside an area church. While praying, he was approached from behind by an unknown male. Unexpectedly, the male placed a ligature around his neck and attempted to strangle him. A struggle ensued during which time the 23-year-old male victim was able to break free and fled the church to call for help. He was later treated at hospital for non-life threatening injuries.
Police attended and searched the area for the suspect. Investigation at the scene revealed the suspect had attempted to remove the security camera from the location before fleeing. Through further investigation officers were able to identify the suspect. As a result, police efforts to locate him expanded in scope, including sharing this information with neighbouring police agencies.
At 11:55 pm, the suspect attempted to turn himself in at the Point Edward OPP station. He was subsequently arrested and transported to the Sarnia Police.
A 38 year old of Sarnia, was held for bail on multiple charges:
- Assault Cause Bodily Harm – Choke, suffocate or strangle
- Assault with a Weapon
- Mischief Under $5000
- Uttering Threats
The motive for this stranger attack is unclear. However, police believe that the potential consumption of illegal substances may have been an aggravating factor in this incident.