VicPD suspects that alcohol played a role in three assaults and one theft during Buccaneer Days over the weekend.
In a media release, VicPD said officers responded to multiple disturbances near the Buccaneer Days celebration in Esquimalt, on Saturday night, May 11th.
At around 10:15 p.m., police were dispatched to the 1200-block of Esquimalt Road, where a group of youths were fighting.
Four individuals were located, having been bear sprayed. Paramedics provided first aid, but the suspects eluded capture, with no detailed descriptions available.
Shortly after, at 10:40 p.m., a man and a woman were assaulted by a group of youths in the 1100-block of Esquimalt Road.
The man, who walked with a cane, was overwhelmed by the group and pushed to the ground. The suspects had already fled the area before police arrived. Both victims sustained visible bruising, and the assault appeared random.
Just before 11:15 p.m., a witness reported observing a woman being bear sprayed by a group of youths in the 800-block of Esquimalt Road.
However, upon police arrival, both victim and suspects had left the scene. Investigators are looking to speak with the victim, described as a 30-year-old Caucasian woman riding a red mobility scooter.
Earlier in the day, a teenage boy reportedly stole a cash box containing approximately $1,000 from a fundraising tent at the event.
VicPD said they deployed additional officers to ensure attendee safety during the celebration.
“Alcohol consumption is believed to have been a factor in these incidents. No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing as officers work to gather CCTV footage and speak to witnesses and victims,” said VicPD.
Any victims who have not spoke with police or anyone with video is asked to call VicPD at (250) 995-7654.
