Teen boy charged after targeted bear spray incidents on Hamilton Mountain

Hamilton police charged a 15-year-old boy from Hamilton in connection with an investigation into two incidents in July where people were sprayed with bear spray, and a related video recording of the incident.

Detectives say they are aware of a video that is circulating online showing youths in a vehicle driving through a Hamilton park and discharging bear spray, and that the video is connected to an active investigation.

Officers say at around 9 a.m. on July 25, a vehicle occupied by several youths attended a home on the Hamilton Mountain, where two people were sprayed with bear spray, with one sustaining minor injuries.

Investigators believe the people at the residence were targeted because of their connection to the intended targets.

Later that afternoon at around 4 p.m., detectives received reports of a vehicle being driven through Burkholder Park, with several youths being seen inside the vehicle.

The vehicle allegedly drove toward intended targets while bear spray was discharged from a window, with one occupant being seen holding a large knife outside the vehicle.

READ MORE: Hamilton police charge youth accused of bear spraying a child

No one was reported injured in that incident.

Police say they believe the two incidents are connected, and both were targeted.

Officers identified the driver of the vehicle and made an arrest later that day.

The 15-year-old accused, whose identity is withheld under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, was held for a bail hearing and charged with offences including assault with a weapon, dangerous operation and two counts of failing to comply with probation.

The vehicle used during the incidents had been reported stolen and has since been recovered by police, and held for forensic examination.

The investigation remains ongoing as investigators work to identify the remaining individuals involved, and believe the outstanding suspects are also youths.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 905-546-4925.

Tips can also be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or online at www.crimestoppershamilton.com

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