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Man charged after bear spray deployed into vehicle occupied by 5-year-old girl: BC RCMP

The RCMP logo is seen outside the force's 'E' division headquarters in Surrey, B.C., on Thursday, March 16, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

A bear spray assault in Barriere has left a 71-year-old man with multiple charges.

The most alarming part of the incident — a five-year-old girl was harmed by bear spray.

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Barriere RCMP said an argument on March 30 led to a physical altercation between a couple and another older nearby resident.

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Around 9 a.m., police were called to the area of Summer Road and Deejay Road for the report of an assault.

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Police said through their investigation, officers confirmed a family was driving away from their home at the Deejay Trailer Park when they were followed by a nearby neighbour.

“It is alleged the resident exited his vehicle and deployed bear spray into the neighbour’s car, while the couple’s 5-year-old daughter was also inside,” Cpl. James Grandy said.

“Despite their pleas to stop, citing the child’s presence, the accused reportedly continued to spray inside their vehicle.”

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After the bear spray was reportedly released into the car, a “physical altercation ensued between all parties,” police said.

All four people, between the victims and suspect, sustained injuries from the bear spray.

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William Siddal, 71, has been charged with three counts of assault with a weapon.

“The use of bear spray in this instance led to the hospitalization of all four involved. Of particular concern is the fact that a child was directly exposed,” said Cpl. Kyle Camalush, Barriere RCMP commander.

“I would like to remind the community that bear spray is considered a prohibited weapon when used against a human. Its use can create a number of life-altering health complications, which could consequently lead to aggravated assault charges.”

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