A concerned citizen is being credited for subduing an armed suspect following a home invasion in Chatham.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service said officers responded to an address on Taylor Avenue on Saturday at around 9 p.m. after two people gained entry to a home and demanded property from the occupant before fleeing the scene.
A witness saw one of the suspects discard suspected drugs as he tried to leave the area. Concerned for public safety, the witness attempted to restrain the suspect for police, however, the suspect allegedly pulled out a handgun, which discharged during a struggle.
The concerned citizen was able to wrestle the gun away from the suspect and hold him until officers arrived to take him into custody.
Following an investigation into the incident, officers with the Intelligence Unit obtained and executed a search warrant at a residence. Authorities seized 43 grams of cocaine, 31.5 grams of methamphetamine and a quantity of prescription medication with an estimated value of $6,000. Drug trafficking paraphernalia, including digital scales, packaging materials and a debt list, was also seized.
A 25-year-old London man has since been charged with robbery with a firearm, disguise with intent, two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking, assault with a weapon, recklessly discharging a firearm, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, careless carrying of a firearm, and obstructing a peace officer. He remains in custody pending a bail hearing.
An investigation into the incident remains ongoing as police work to identify the second suspect believed to be involved in the home invasion.
While no injuries were reported, police officials are encouraging members of the public to exercise caution when witnessing criminal activity, adding that attempting to physically intervene can result in serious injury or death.
“While we recognize and appreciate the desire of community members to assist, situations involving suspected offenders can escalate rapidly and unpredictably, particularly when weapons may be involved,” police said in a news release. “Members of the public are encouraged to be good witnesses rather than placing themselves at risk.”
Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact police at (519) 352-1234 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
