On September 8, 2024, at around 9:45 p.m., officers from the Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment responded to a shoplifting incident at a retail store in Laurentian Valley Township.
According to police, a suspect left the store with a shopping cart full of unpaid items. Two private citizens intervened, confronting the individual. During the confrontation, both citizens were sprayed with an irritant. They were later taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
The suspect fled on foot, and despite efforts by the OPP’s Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Canine Unit, they were not located.
Police have since identified a person of interest, with charges expected to follow. Authorities are reminding the public to avoid intervening in active crime situations for safety reasons and to contact emergency services immediately. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
(Written by: Emma Butler)