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Broadcast time: 10:28 P.M. |
Date: November 16, 2013 |
At about 6:45 P.M. on Saturday, November 16, a couple returned to their home on Landsdowne (between Vimy and Athlone in the Coronation Park area) from shopping.
The female victim entered the house, while her husband tended to items in the car. Upon entry into the home, she immediately noticed items out of place and called out to her husband. At the same time a male appeared at the bottom of the basement stairs pointing what appeared to be a handgun at her, and ordered her to back off as he walked up the stairs towards her. She fled outside.
The male victim entered the house and began a struggle with the assailant in the kitchen. The assailant pointed what appeared to be a handgun at his chest, and pulled the trigger. A “bang” was heard, but no projectile was issued, causing the victim to believe this was not a real firearm. He also noted he thought the tip of the barrel was red, but painted over, as is the case with toy firearms in some cases.
The struggle continued out the kitchen door onto the rear deck. The victim suffered a cut hand from the broken glass in the door. The suspect’s outer coat came off in the struggle, and he came free. The suspect then pulled out a pocket knife and ordered the victim to back off. The suspect then picked up his clothing, and a white shopping bag he had with him, and fled on foot westbound through the property of Queen Elizabeth School.
Sarnia Police contained the area, and the OPP canine unit assisted. However, the suspect was not located. Sarnia Police Forensic Identification also attended.
The victim suffered a cut to his hand, but did not seek medical attention.
Assailant is described as follows:
- White male in his early to mid 20′s;
- Medium height, short brown hair;
- Dark coat – mid thigh length;
- No facial hair or tattoos noted;
- Carrying a white plastic bag
Point of entry into the home appears to be the rear door, which was forced open.
An initial assessment of items taken from the home is as follows:
- Jewelry items (two or three stainless steel rings, and some sets of cuff links);
- Personal identification of one of the victims (SIN, drivers licence)
Sarnia Police request all citizens to be extra wary of any suspicious activity in their neighborhood, and to call police immediately if anything appears to need police attention. Also, if anyone has any information about this incident, please contact Sarnia Police or Crimestoppers.
On a final note, police urge all people who may find themselves in a similar situation – DO NOT assume a firearm is a toy or replica. Treat any apparent weapon as if it is loaded and ready to go. Err on the side of caution when it comes to weapons at all times.
Staff Sergeant Chris Oram
D Platoon
Tel: 519-344-8861 Ext 5271
Email: coram@police.sarnia.on.ca