A 21-year-old North Bay man has been charged following an altercation that escalated when police say he sprayed bear spray at three individuals. Police, along with District of Nipissing Paramedic Services, were dispatched to the scene at about 10 p.m. on Aug. 26. “A verbal altercation near Fraser Street and Second Avenue escalated when the accused allegedly sprayed bear spray at three victims,” the North Bay Police Service said in a news release the next day. “Two of the victims received medical treatment, with one transported to hospital.” Police also advised that all parties were known to one another. According to officers, the accused was located a short time later and arrested without further incident. ‘Bear spray is a serious weapon’ The incident prompted a warning from a local investigator. “Bear spray is a serious weapon that can cause significant harm to those exposed,” said Insp. Scott McFarlane. “We remind the public that using bear spray against another person can have serious legal consequences.” Charges laid The man has been charged with three counts of assault with a weapon, three counts of administering a noxious thing, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and three offences related to failing to comply with probation or release orders. The accused was held in custody, pending a bail hearing.
