West Shore RCMP seek witnesses of bear spray attack at Langford mall

West Shore RCMP are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a youth suspect in an alleged bear spray attack. 

At around 4:13 p.m. on August 11th, police responded to a call at Westshore Town Centre after a youth reportedly deployed a can of bear spray into the mall entrance area near the FreshCo grocery store. 

Police say at least two bystanders were exposed to the spray.

The suspect has not yet been identified and West Shore RCMP are asking for anyone who may recognize him to come forward. 

According to police, the suspect is described as a Caucasian boy who is approximately 14- to 17-years-old, with brown hair. 

He was reportedly riding a blue scooter, wearing a camouflage-patterned hoodie and light-coloured ripped jeans. 

“Bear spray is designed as a wildlife deterrent for situations where a person encounters a bear and needs to protect themselves,” said Cpl. Nancy Saggar, media relations officer for West Shore RCMP.  

“It is not intended to be deployed at people or discharged in a public place. Using bear spray in this manner can put innocent members of the public at risk and the accused can face serious criminal consequences.”

Anyone with information about the identity of the suspect should call West Shore RCMP at (250) 474-2264. 

Those who wish to report anonymously can do so via Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477.