Winnipeg Police Service say two teens are in custody after assaulting 11 people with bear spray on Sunday, February 12, 2023.

The incident began on a Winnipeg Transit bus around 3:00 pm when the suspects allegedly assaulted seven people aged 12 to 60 with bear spray, including the driver. The assailants then fled the bus to a nearby store in the 1000 block of Empress Street where they assaulted three more people aged 16 to 52 with the repellent.

Just before 6:00 pm, a 22-year-old employee was sprayed at a rec centre in the 400 block of Langside Street. A second 18-year-old employee was slapped according to police.

When officers arrived they found two teens holding bear spray outside the building. The teens fled but were quickly caught by officers. A search of the pair uncovered four cans of bear spray. During the arrest, one of the teens lied about his identity but was later identified. The same teen spat at an officer’s face.

The 11 victims were treated at the various scenes by paramedics.

Police do not know the motive for the attacks.

A 16-year-old male has been charged for his alleged involvement with 11 counts of Assault with a Weapon, two counts of Assault a Peace Officer Possession of a Weapon, Identity Fraud – Intent to Avoid Arrest, Prosecution or Obstruct Justice, two counts of Fail to Comply with Condition of Release Order and Fail to Comply with Sentence.

He also had an outstanding warrant that he was processed on for two counts of Fail to Comply with Condition of Release Order.

A 15-year-old male has been charged for his alleged involvement with 11 counts of Assault with a Weapon, Assault, Two counts of Possession of a Weapon and two counts of Fail to Comply with Condition of Undertaking. He was also processed on an outstanding warrant for Fail to Attend Court – Undertaking

Both teens were detained.