Two teenagers have been apprehended by Hamilton police in connection with a violent incident on the East Mountain that resulted in a 15-year-old boy being hospitalized and a resident being threatened at knifepoint in front of his family.
The authorities were summoned to East 14th Street at approximately 8:45 p.m. on Jan. 21 following reports of a disturbance. Upon arrival, they discovered a teenage boy affected by bear spray and an adult man who had encountered a knife-wielding assailant.
According to investigators, the 15-year-old victim had arranged to meet a friend in the neighborhood and arrived via rideshare. Upon exiting the vehicle, he was ambushed by a group of male youths armed with knives and bear spray. The assailants sprayed him and pursued him as he attempted to flee on foot.
The boy sought refuge inside a nearby vehicle owned by a resident who was outside shoveling snow. The attackers forcefully entered the vehicle and continued to spray the victim inside.
When the vehicle owner intervened, he was menaced with a knife in the presence of his wife and infant. Despite the peril, he stood his ground, prompting the suspects to eventually flee the scene. The injured teenager was later transported to the hospital by paramedics.
Following a thorough inquiry, law enforcement identified and apprehended two Hamilton youths, aged 15 and 17, who are now facing multiple charges such as uttering threats to cause death, administering a noxious substance, and assault with a weapon. Police have indicated that further charges may be brought as the investigation progresses.
Detectives are urging anyone with knowledge about the incident to reach out to Hamilton police.