PRESS RELEASE - FEBRUARY 10, 2023

WINNIPEG, February 10, 2023 – Today, the Winnipeg Police Service issued a News Release about an assault that occurred yesterday, February 9th, of an unprovoked attack with a machete on an adult male – both the victim and the suspect were passengers of the same Transit bus and alighted at the same stop at Mount Royal Road and Ness Avenue where the victim was assaulted.

Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1505 says tragedies like this reinforce their call for Transit security.

“Although the assault itself did not take place on the bus, it does not change the fact that a weapon was brought on to the bus, which put everybody on the bus in a potentially very dangerous situation.” Said Chris Scott, President of ATU Local 1505.

“This reinforces our call for a security team. The announcement of the $5 million funding for Transit security and safety initiatives is a pivotal moment in our journey to safer transit, but we need to get boots on the ground immediately.” States Scott.

“Furthermore, it amplifies our call for the provincial and federal governments to provide better resources to help those suffering from mental health, addictions, and/or homelessness.” Continued Scott. “We really need to deal with the root causes while also making sure people are safe.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim and all those who had to witness this traumatic event, and hope the suspect is caught quickly.”

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