'Creepy’ clown sightings leave people on edge

CTV Kitchener: Clown sightings ramp up Police investigating creepy clown sightings around the region. Victoria Levy has more.

Waterloo Regional Police say they have received a number of reports of “creepy” clowns accosting people around the region.

In Cambridge, there have been at least four incidents, including a clown that jumped in front of a car.

At Briardale Plaza near Elgin Street, 12-year-old John Maclellan was getting a slice of pizza at a local shop when he heard a laugh.

“I looked over and I saw two clowns. I started walking faster and then they started chasing me down the street. I was a bit afraid because I knew their weapons were fake but I wasn't sure if they had an actual gun or an actual knife hidden somewhere, “said Maclellan.

On Friday another similar incident, this time in Elmira.

Daryl Cronin said her three daughters were walking home from St. Theresa school when they were chased by a clown.

“My youngest came in first, she was just frantic, red-faced, and she said a clown had chased them home,” said Cronin.  “I jumped up and said you’re joking? She said now and her sisters came in right behind her and told her the same story.”

Cronin said she contacted both schools in the area and decided to report the incident to police.

“My first emotion was anger that someone would make them feel afraid in their own community. Once I had some time to think about it and calmed down and look at the picture, I assumed it was someone young, and then I became afraid for that person as well. I don’t want anyone getting hurt in our community and I think chasing someone’s children is a volatile thing to do.”

Cronin said the culprit was found later that night.

In a statement to CTV news, Waterloo Regional Police Service said, “They are investigating numerous clown sightings and criminal investigators are following up information and leads.

In an email, Waterloo Region District School Board spokesperson Lynsey Slupeiks says, “We are taking this opportunity to remind our students not to speak to anyone they don't know, and if they see anything suspicious to tell a trusted adult and report the incident to the police. “

Police are asking anyone who spots a clown or has information about recent sightings to contact them right away.