Violent weekend in ByWard Market ahead of downtown safety plan rollout

A violent weekend in the ByWard Market comes as police are set to roll out a new safety plan. CTV’s Katie Griffin reports.

It was a violent weekend in the ByWard Market ahead of the rollout of a new downtown safety plan that would see more police officers in the area and other parts of the city.

A man remains in critical condition in hospital after a stabbing Saturday night in the area of George and William streets. Police are also investigating after a woman was attacked Thursday night in the same area across from The Grand Pizzeria.

• Man taken to hospital in critical condition following ByWard Market stabbing

“Shocked and disappointed when we see acts of violence or disruptive behavior,” said David Mangano, co-owner of The Grand Pizzeria.

“We have noticed an increase in police presence over the last couple of weeks, some foot patrols and some car patrols. So, it would be nice to see maybe a greater police presence in the evening.”

No arrests have been made in either incident.

In March, Ottawa Police Chief Eric Stubbs outlined a new downtown safety plan that promised more officers in areas like the market, Chinatown and Centretown.

“Very visible and they’ll be focused and they’ll know exactly where to go in terms of those hotspot areas, as well as targeting those people that are causing the community the most harm,” Stubbs said in conversation with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe on March 24.

The area councillor said increased police presence is one piece of the puzzle.

“Whether that be more mental health supports, more housing supports, more investment into the ByWard Market itself, into better lighting,” said Rideau-Vanier Coun. Stéphanie Plante .

“I always say, as long as we think more long term, because the health and the vitality of the ByWard Market reflects the health and the vitality of our city.”

Mangano said people should not be afraid to visit the ByWard Market.

“I’ve been in the market for 30 years so to be honest with you, I think recently, the last couple of years, it’s actually been the best it’s ever been. These acts, these isolated incidents, are not random. The people know each other. The market is 100 per cent safe, it’s a vibrant, fun place to be,” he said.

The ByWard Market District Authority says it is working with police on its own safety initiative, expected to be rolled out later this spring.

“We welcome the plan to increase OPS patrols in the area in the coming weeks. These enhanced measures will provide an added layer of security and will hopefully help deter further incidents,” said Victoria Williston, the executive director of the ByWard Market District Authority.

“A safe and vibrant ByWard Market is a shared responsibility, and we are committed to working alongside our partners, businesses and residents to ensure this neighbourhood remains a welcoming destination for all.”

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