On October 13th, 2022, at 6:40pm Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) officers assigned to 1 District (St. Catharines / Thorold) responded to an assault in progress at a residential address located in the area of Collier Road North and Stewart Avenue, in the City of Thorold.
Investigation has determined the suspect was inside the residence with both adult male victims when a knife was drawn. One victim was threatened with death, however sustained no physical injuries. The other victim was struck with the knife multiple times resulting in serious injuries. A good Samaritan who happened to be in the area with his vehicle observed the injured victim run from the residence and assisted by driving the victim from the scene to a nearby Fire Station for medical treatment. As the good Samaritan and victim were driving away from the scene, the suspect proceeded to kick the vehicle causing damage. The residence was also set on fire by the suspect. Both the suspect and victims were known to one and other.
Niagara Emergency Medical Service (NEMS) paramedics attended the Fire Station and transported the victim to an out-of-town trauma centre for advanced medical care. The victim remains in hospital suffering from serious non-life-threatening injuries.
Thorold Fire and Emergency Services attended the residence and extinguished the fire. Damage is estimated at $5000.
The suspect fled the scene on foot and was located by responding NRPS officers on Allanburg Road South near Treeview Park. He was taken into custody and arrested at 6:57pm. The involved knife was recovered.
Bruce John Robert LOVE (33 years) of Thorold is charged with the following Criminal Code offences:
• Aggravated Assault
• Uttering Threats
• Mischief Under $5000
• Arson Causing Damage to Property
LOVE is being held for a bail hearing scheduled to take place on October 14th, 2022, via video link to the Robert S.K. Welch Courthouse located at 59 Church Street, in the City of St. Catharines.
Detectives assigned to the 1 District Criminal Investigative Branch have assumed carriage of the investigation. They are being assisted by members of the Forensic Services Unit. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the lead investigator by dialing 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009287.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information that leads to an arrest.
Incident #22-117407