A 29-year-old man is facing multiple charges in connection with five random attacks on people in downtown Calgary Wednesday night.
The commotion began when police responded to reports of a hit and run just after 7:00 pm on the 800 block of Macleod Trail SE
Police were reviewing surveillance footage when they saw video of a man walking up to a family along Macleod Trail SE between Eighth and Ninth avenues SE, punching a male family member several times, causing him to fall, then punching him again , while he was on earth.
The victim was able to defend himself, police say, and run away from the attacker. Police have spoken to the family and are looking to speak to witnesses.
A few minutes later, CCTV footage showed a man and woman leaving Arts Commons and walking towards Macleod Trail SE. The suspect approached the man and pointed a “finger” at him before hitting him. The two managed to escape. Police have not yet spoken to the victims.
Shortly thereafter, the suspect approached a third couple walking north on McLeod Trail SE and attacked the man, punching him in the face. Police have not yet spoken to the victim.
The suspect then lunged at a fourth man, kicking him from behind, causing him to fall. The victim got up and ran into traffic where he was nearly hit by vehicles. Police spoke with the victim.
Around 7:20 p.m., the suspect approached a family leaving Olympic Plaza walking south on Macleod Trail SE and punched a fifth man in the face. The family managed to defend themselves and reported the incident to a nearby peace officer.
Reviewing surveillance footage, police saw the suspect enter the Arts Commons building. They went inside and after a short search they found him.
While arresting him, a policeman was injured. He was transported to a hospital and released.
The suspect was also taken to a hospital for evaluation.
Dawson Bailey Richardson, 29, faces three counts of assault, one count of mischief, two counts of resisting arrest and one count of assault on a police officer.
He remains in police custody. He is due in court on Friday. The investigation is ongoing and more charges may be filed.
Any victims or witnesses to these assaults are asked to contact police at 403-266-1234. Anonymous callers can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online or by downloading the P3 Tips app.
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