North Bay, Ontario — A recent violent incident in the downtown area of North Milford has sparked a police investigation after security footage captured a group attacking an individual early on the morning of July 15. The attack, which involved a suspected shooting, occurred at the intersection of Main Street East and Sherbourne Street, raising serious community safety concerns.
The security footage, which officials have reviewed, shows a blurry scene where an individual on a bicycle is ambushed by two attackers. As the victim attempts to escape, several others converge, exacerbating the assault. During the aggression, one assailant appears to brandish a firearm, with two flashes of light following, suggestive of gunshots. The victim managed to escape, fleeing the scene on foot with some attackers in pursuit.
A witness to the aftermath of the incident reported seeing a significant amount of blood at the location, but days later, only a vague outline of a stain was visible, possibly due to recent rainfall which might have washed away other traces.
The alarming nature of the incident led Councillor Mark King to address it during a Community Safety and Well-Being committee meeting at the North Bay City Hall. King described the events as “very concerning,” especially noting the possibility of gunfire.
Despite the gravity of the situation, North Bay Police have not released an official report to the local media. The lack of immediate information has left the community anxious for updates regarding their safety and the progress of the police investigation.
On July 17, the North Bay Police Service confirmed that they are actively investigating the incident. However, officials acknowledged that due to the ongoing nature of their inquiry, details could not be extensively shared at the time. “As this is currently under investigation, NBIs cannot release any additional details,” stated a representative from the North Bay Police.
Adding to the ongoing investigation updates, David Woolley, a spokesperson for the North Bay Police Service, communicated on July 19 that while the investigation continues, there is no foreseeable threat to the public’s safety. Woolley also mentioned, “At this point in the investigation, we are not asking for assistance from the public.”
This incident has underscored the critical role of surveillance in both preventing and solving crimes. Several security cameras are installed along that block of Main East, which may provide crucial evidence for law enforcement to identify the assailants.
The community remains on high alert following the attack, with local authorities urging anyone who might have witnessed the incident or who has any pertinent information to come forward, despite the police not formally requesting public assistance.
As the investigation unfolds, residents and officials alike hope for a quick resolution to restore a sense: of security in the area, stressing the importance of vigilance and community cooperation in maintaining the safety of North Bay’s downtown core.