Man arrested during hatchet wielding attack: C25-276767

Released: November 20, 2025 at 9:20 a.m.

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On November 17, 2025, just after 5:30 p.m., Central District General Patrol officers responded to the Health Sciences Centre for the report of an Aggravated Assault. Upon arrival, they located a 26-year-old man who was being medically treated for his injuries.

Officers determined through investigating that the victim had been walking east on Ellice Avenue just before 12:30 p.m., when he passed by a suspect walking in the opposite direction. Shortly after, the victim heard footsteps behind him. He turned around and observed the suspect that he had previously passed standing behind him, holding a hatchet. Without provocation, the victim was struck in the head with the hatchet. The victim fled to a nearby business for safety.

The victim was transported to hospital in stable condition, where he was treated for serious upper body injuries.

The Major Crimes Unit (MCU) assumed the investigation and identified a suspect.

On November 18, 2025, shortly before 2:00 p.m., MCU located and arrested the suspect outside of an apartment complex in the 400 block of Beverley Street.

Joshua Clifford Walter BEAR, (20) has been charged with the following:

  • Aggravated Assault
  • Possession of a Weapon
  • Fail to Comply with Probation Order

He was detained in custody.

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