Timmins business owner who chased suspect with a machete charged with aggravated assault

In a news release June 29, police in Timmins said officers responded on the morning of June 26 “to a report of mischief after an individual allegedly damaged a window at a local business before leaving the area on foot." (File)

A Timmins, Ont., business owner who is accused of chasing and attacking someone who allegedly vandalized their business has been charged with aggravated assault.

In a news release Monday, police in Timmins said officers responded on the morning of June 26 “to a report of mischief after an individual allegedly damaged a window at a local business” before fleeing on foot.

“The business owner pursued and confronted the individual, during which a weapon was used, resulting in serious injuries,” police said.

“The injured individual was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.”

The business owner has been charged with aggravated assault, assault with a weapon, weapons possession and making threats to commit bodily harm or death.

The injured person was charged with mischief under $5,000.

Don’t take the law into your own hands

Police confirmed reports that a machete was used in the assault, adding that “the investigation has concluded, and no further information will be released.”

However, residents were reminded not to take the law into their own hands.

“The Timmins Police Service understands that crimes committed against individuals and businesses can be frustrating and upsetting,” the release said.

“However, no property is worth risking serious injury or loss of life. Whether you witness a crime in progress or become the victim of one, your first priority should always be your personal safety. We ask members of the public not to pursue or physically confront suspects.”

Instead of taking such risks, people should “be a good witness by noting descriptions or direction of travel when it is safe to do so, and contact police as soon as possible,” police said.

“Our officers are trained to respond to these situations and investigate reported incidents. While we recognize the desire to protect your property or community, attempting to intervene can quickly escalate a situation and place everyone involved at greater risk.”