On March 9, 2024, at approximately 5:25 p.m., the Winnipeg Police Service responded to The Forks Market for the report of multiple youths fighting with security personnel.
As attending Central District General Patrol officers arrived, the suspects fled in multiple directions. Officers arrested four male youth suspects after short foot pursuits in the area of the Esplanade Riel Footbridge. A knife and brass knuckles were recovered from the youths and seized as evidence.
Through their investigation, officers learned that security recognized several barred youth suspects within the market and directed them to vacate the premises. The suspects, angered by security’s request, threatened to assault them as they were escorted off the property. Once they approached the Esplanade Riel Footbridge, one of the suspects produced and discharged a canister of what is believed to be bear spray at security and began physically assaulting them. Officers reported no injuries.
Two 14-year-old males, one 16-year-old male, and one 17-year-old male, all from Winnipeg, face numerous charges, including Assault, Assault with a Weapon, Possession of a Weapon, Carry Concealed Weapon Prohibited Device or Ammunition, Utter Threats, and Breaches.
All four were released through Appearance Notices or Undertakings as mandated by the Criminal Code.