A picture taken at the fair Wednesday evening. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

Crime

Police respond to bear mace incidents and tire slashings at PA fair

Aug 1, 2024 | 11:06 AM

The Prince Albert Police Service is advising the public it is working closely with the Prince Albert Exhibition Association and their security services to enhance public safety measures for the remainder of the summer fair.

Thursday’s statement is in response to several incidents that occurred Wednesday night related to bear spray and vehicle vandalism. At least one video posted to social media showed people running in fear.

“This collaborative effort includes increased police presence, improved communication channels between law enforcement and event security, and implementation of additional security protocols,” the police statement said.

The first incident occurred at 6:15p.m., when officers were alerted to a bear spray attack involving four victims, including two children. A young offender was arrested at the scene and charged with assault with a weapon. They will make their first court appearance on August 7.

Nearly two and a half hours later, police were called to a second bear spray incident affecting approximately 20 adults and children. No charges have been laid at this time and the incident is still under investigation.

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At 10:39 PM, officers responded to a weapons call involving a female with a large knife allegedly slashing tires. A female suspect was located and confronted by police. During the interaction a Conducted Energy Weapon was deployed and the suspect was taken into custody. The 24-year-old woman was charged with resisting arrest and appeared in court on Thursday.

And then at 11:04p.m., police received a report of a third bear spray attack on a crowd of people. No charges have been laid at this time and the incident is still under investigation.

The police service advised their joint priority with the exhibition association is to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

“We encourage visitors to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to on-site security personnel or police officers,” they said.

Roger Reimer, Owner of Prince Albert Security Services, provided a statement to paNOW.

“As far as how it was getting in, it’s simply impossible to watch every corner of the grounds. But we have worked with out gate guards and tightened things up today and every person and bag will be inspected no matter what. We will do our best to keep the weapons and bear spray out to the best of our ability,” he said.

Anyone with information about these events is asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers . Tips can also be submitted anonymously online.

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell