The Saanich Police Major Crime Unit is seeking witnesses to a serious assault that occurred late in the evening on Friday, July 14, 2023.
Just before 11 pm, a 19-year-old male was walking to a bus stop at Majestic Avenue and Ash Road when he was assaulted by suspects armed with a police-style baton and pepper spray. The victim was alone and had recently left a youth gathering at the PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park) beach park area. He was treated in hospital and is recovering from his injuries, which are considered to be serious but not life-threatening.
A search of the area by the Integrated Canine Service located the baton; however, detectives are looking for more information, including descriptions of the suspects.
As in years past, police have been proactively attending this area this summer, as it is known for large gatherings on the beach that later spill out into the streets and can result in disorderly conduct.
“Although Saanich Police were on scene quickly and have spoken with residents and other persons in the area at the time, it is believed there are pictures and recordings not yet shared with police that may afford evidence, and persons with information about this assault have yet to speak with Saanich Police,” said Cst. Markus Anastasiades. “This was a serious assault and we know there are people that can assist us in this investigation.”
If you have recordings or information related to this investigation, please contact the Saanich Police through majorcrime@saanichpolice.ca and reference file 23-13080. You can also report what you know anonymously by contacting the Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Police are also reminding those that choose to attend these gatherings that consuming alcohol in public is prohibited, and beach fires are not allowed anywhere in the municipality.
File 23-13080
Cst. Markus Anastasiades
Public Information & Communications Officer
media@saanichpolice.ca