Police in London have now confirmed they are looking into a Labour Day incident involving Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau.
"London Police are aware of an incident which occurred on September 6 during a visit to London by Prime Minister Trudeau as well as other elected officials, in which rocks were thrown, striking some participants," said Media Relations Officer Scott Mandich in an email to Blackburn News. "LPS has commenced an investigation into this matter."
It happened late Monday afternoon outside the London Co-Operative Brewing Company on Princess Avenue near Burbrook Place. Trudeau was boarding his campaign bus after visiting the brewery when someone threw gravel in his direction.
The gravel appeared to hit Trudeau in the head and shoulder. He looked startled for a moment, briefly glanced over his shoulder at the crowd, then boarded the bus. He was not hurt.
About 100 people, upset over safety measures designed to control the COVID-19 pandemic, protested outside. The crowd, some of whom were wearing People's Party of Canada attire, could be heard engaging in profane chanting.
Monday's incident was the latest in a series of campaign appearances that have turned violent. Trudeau was met with demonstrators earlier Monday in Brampton. A campaign appearance in Bolton had to be cancelled when angry protestors outnumbered Liberal supporters.
Monday's stop by Trudeau was the first to London by any of the major party leaders.
Anyone with information on this incident should call London police at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
---with files from Miranda Chant
