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Port Alberni RCMP respond to bear spray attacks

Two separate robberies involving bear spray have occurred
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Only two weeks into the new year, Port Alberni RCMP have already responded to two separate robberies involving bear spray.

On the evening of Monday, Jan. 8, two males tried to break into a house in the 3500 block of 6th Avenue. The homeowner appeared from within the house at a window that had just been broken and was met by two suspects standing outside the window. Upon seeing the homeowner, one of the suspects produced a weapon before the other suspect sprayed the resident with bear spray. The two men then fled the area when the resident threatened to call police and let their dog out.

In the early morning of Thursday, Jan. 11, two males broke into a residence on the 5200 block of River Road. The suspects knocked on the door and when the residents answered, they sprayed the residents with bear spray before forcing their way into the home. One of the suspects presented a weapon. The suspects stole a few valuables, then fled the house.

The two male suspects have been described as being heavy set or stocky and approximately 6 feet tall. The suspects had covered their faces and have not been identified.

In both instances, police immediately conducted extensive patrols in these areas, but failed to locate the suspects. The investigations are continuing. Police are seeking assistance from the public in identifying the suspects. If you were travelling through either of these areas during these times and saw anything suspicious, police would like to hear from you.

If you witnessed one of these incidents or you have any information that may assist investigators, you are asked to contact the Port Alberni RCMP at 250-723-2424. Or, to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), leave a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net or by text your tip to CRIMES (274637). Crime Stoppers pays up to $2000 for information leading to an arrest.