Quebec man charged after break-in, assault on North Bay youths

A 48-year-old Quebec City man faces charges, including break-and-enter and assault with a weapon, after allegedly forcing his way into a Lakeshore Drive home.

A 48-year-old Quebec City man is facing multiple charges after allegedly forcing his way into a private residence and assaulting two youths with a weapon in North Bay, Ont., on Tuesday.

The North Bay Police Service responded to reports of a break-in at a residence in the 500-block of Lakeshore Drive shortly before 5:17 p.m.

The accused was taken into custody without further incident and has been charged with breaking-and-entering and two counts of assault with a weapon.

Youths targeted in unprovoked attack

According to police, the accused initially knocked on the door of the victims’ secured unit, though the youths did not know him. Shortly afterward, the victims reportedly saw the man behaving aggressively outside.

“Upon noticing the youths, the accused allegedly began to chase after them; they were able to flee safely,” police said in a news release Wednesday.

The situation intensified when the man allegedly picked up a statue and used it as a weapon to force entry into the home. Once inside, he pursued the two victims before they managed to escape. Nearby witnesses promptly alerted authorities.

Police praise quick response

North Bay police’s acting deputy chief, Insp. Jeff Warner commended the efforts of officers and bystanders in resolving the situation.

“This was a deeply unsettling incident and I want to commend the quick actions of our officers and the witnesses,” Warner said. “Quick response was critical in ensuring the safety of the youth involved and in preventing further harm. We recognize how distressing this must have been for those directly impacted, and we thank everyone who played a role in bringing this situation to a safe resolution.”

The accused remains in custody awaiting a bail hearing.