Niagara police identify suspect in Fort Erie shooting

Following a suspected targeted shooting in Fort Erie that sent a man to hospital, Niagara police say they have identified the suspect.

On Wednesday at around 1:30 a.m., police were called to the area of Niagara Boulevard between Bertie and Murray streets for a report that someone had been shot.

Officers say they arrived on the scene to find a 27-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound to the lower body.

Emergency services treated the victim and sent him to an out-of-region hospital, where he remains in stable condition.

Investigators say initial information was obtained indicating that an altercation had taken place between the victim and the suspect, outside of a residence on Niagara Boulevard.

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Detectives say the incident escalated to the point at which the suspect discharged a firearm at the victim.

Officers have identified the suspect as 28-year-old Samuel Sawyer of Fort Erie, who is facing five charges including aggravated assault and discharge firearm with intent to wound.

There is a heavy police presence in the area and roads have been closed as the Forensic Services Unit has been called in to process the scene.

Anyone with information related to this incident or Sawyer’s whereabouts is asked to contact investigators at 905-688-4111, option 3, ext. 1009700.

Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1800-222-8477 (TIPS).

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