Sarnia police say there is no threat to public safety as the suspect wanted in connection to a shooting earlier this week was reportedly known to the victim.
The incident happened at around midnight Monday morning. A couple had just returned to their Napier Street residence when a masked suspect opened fire on them as they exited their vehicle. Police said the male victim suffered three gunshot wounds, one in the neck and two in the chest, before he and his girlfriend fled on foot to Sarnia Police Headquarters.
The victim was taken to Bluewater Health with serious injuries and then airlifted to hospital in London, where he remains in stable condition.
On Wednesday, Sarnia police said they continue to investigate the incident, and will not be providing additional details for the time being to protect the integrity of the probe while it’s still in its infancy.
“As a result of the investigation to date, Sarnia Police are satisfied that this was a targeted event between parties who are believed to be known to each other,” read a statement from police. “As a result, there is no concern for the safety of the general public at this time.”
The accused and the firearm used in the shooting have not been located.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police. Additionally, those who live in the area of Napier, Parker, Nelson and Christina streets who have home or business surveillance recorded between the hours of midnight and 2 a.m. are requested to review their footage and deliver a copy to police, or contact investigators to assist in retrieving it.
Tips can be made to Sarnia police directly at 519-344-8861 extension: 5300, or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 519-332-TIPS (8477).
-With files from Stephanie Chaves