Canadian Armed Forces member suffers life-altering injuries in Hamilton restaurant assault

We are learning more about the shocking assault at the Mandarin restaurant on Barton Street on Sunday afternoon.

The Department of National Defense tells CHCH News the 59-year-old victim – who suffered life altering injuries — is a member of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Police say the man was beaten up by a 12-year-old boy and a 48-year-old woman was also charged.

Hamiltonians are stunned by what police say happened at the Centre on Barton Sunday.

“It’s unbelievable. It’s crazy that this is happening in Canada.”

“I’m so upset I don’t even wanna go out anymore.”

Hamilton police say it all started when two youths approached cadets who were selling poppies out front of the restaurant on Sunday and blew a loud air horn in the cadets ears.

A 59-year-old Canadian Armed Forces member, who was supervising the cadets, went into the restaurant to confront the youths. Police say he ended up getting beat up by the 12-year-old boy, adding that a 48-year-old woman, who was eating at the restaurant, also got involved.

“A 48-year-old female with no relation to anyone involved in this situation opted to jump in and assist the youths during this struggle,” says Const. Trevor McKenna.

READ MORE: Two charged in assault that left air cadet supervisor with life-altering injuries

Investigators say the youths fled after the violent assault and so did the woman – a 12-year-old boy, and a 48-year-old woman were later arrested and charged with assault.

Hamilton police say the name of the woman who was charged is Estela Quintanilla and her next court date is Feb. 4.

Officers say that the man suffered life-altering injuries after being repeatedly punched on the floor of the restaurant.

Ward 4 Councillor-elect Jason Farr says he will be working with organizations that help young people get involved in recreational activities that could keep them out of trouble.

He says residents are concerned about the rise of youth crime.

“It’s gone beyond mischief and it’s become concerning for neighbourhoods,” says Farr. “We are seeing a bit of a trend here with youth crime, youth violence and many people in various neighbourhoods of Ward 4 are quite concerned.”

The manager of the Mandarin did not want to speak about the incident on Tuesday.

“I can’t believe it. Like what’s happening in this area and in Hamilton. It’s really scary.”

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