Chatham-Kent Police Service officials allege: A 25-year-old London, Ont., resident is facing numerous charges after a firearm discharged during a struggle with a bystander who intervened in an alleged home invasion in Chatham.
Chatham-Kent police say officers responded to reports of a home invasion at a residence on Taylor Avenue at approximately 9 p.m. on July 11. Two suspects are alleged to have gained entry into the residence and demanded property from the occupant before fleeing the scene.
Police say the incident escalated into a disturbance involving multiple individuals in the surrounding area after a witness observed a male suspect discard suspected controlled substances while attempting to leave. Concerned for public safety, the witness intervened and restrained the suspect until police arrived.
While being restrained, the suspect allegedly produced a handgun, which discharged during the struggle. The witness was able to gain control of the firearm and maintain custody of the suspect until officers arrived and took him into custody. No injuries were reported in relation to the incident.
The accused has been charged with robbery with a firearm, disguise with intent, possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking, assault with a weapon, discharging a firearm in a reckless manner, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, careless carrying of a firearm, and obstructing a peace officer. He remains in custody pending a bail hearing.
As the investigation progressed, members of the Chatham-Kent Police Service Intelligence Unit obtained and executed a Controlled Drugs and Substances Act search warrant at a residence connected to the investigation. Officers seized drug trafficking paraphernalia, including digital scales, packaging materials and a debt list, along with 43 grams of cocaine, 31.5 grams of methamphetamine and a quantity of prescription medication with an estimated value of $6,000.
The investigation remains ongoing, with police continuing to review surveillance footage and other evidence in an effort to identify an additional suspect believed to be involved in the home invasion. Further charges are anticipated as the investigation continues.
Police say the incident appears to be isolated, the occupant of the residence was not harmed, and there is no ongoing risk to public safety.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service is also reminding members of the public to exercise caution when witnessing criminal activity. While the service says it recognizes and appreciates the desire of community members to assist, it warns that situations involving suspected offenders can escalate rapidly and unpredictably, particularly when weapons may be involved.
Members of the public are encouraged to be good witnesses rather than placing themselves at risk. Police say anyone who observes a crime in progress should contact police immediately, maintain a safe distance, and provide responding officers with as much information as possible, including descriptions of individuals, vehicles and direction of travel. Personal safety should always remain the priority, as attempting to physically intervene can result in serious injury or death, police say.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Chatham-Kent Police Service at 519-352-1234 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477.
