Police investigate bear spray assault in Kitchener parking lot

An image shows a Waterloo Regional Police Service cruiser. (Erin Anderson/CityNews)

By Erin Anderson

Posted Aug 17, 2026 12:21:00 PM.

Last Updated Aug 17, 2026 02:02:22 PM.

Police are investigating a reported assault involving bear spray in a Kitchener parking lot.

The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) was called shortly after 5 a.m. Saturday when a bystander found a male victim in distress in a parking lot in the Ottawa St. North and Weber St. East area.

It’s believed the male was sprayed with bear spray in another parking lot around Charles St. East and Pandora Ave. North, and then made his way to the other nearby parking lot to seek help.

The victim sustained minor injuries to his eyes and face, and was taken to hospital for treatment.

Police believe the assault took place between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Aug. 15.

The suspect is believed to be male and police say they’re working to identify and locate him.

Anyone with further information on the assault, including those with video footage, can contact WRPS at 519-570-9777.

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