The LGBTQ community in the Niagara region suspects that a violent attack on a man in downtown St. Catharines over the weekend could be a hate crime, prompting an investigation by Niagara police.
A woman has been detained related to the incident that occurred Saturday night on St. Paul Street near Bond Street, while another individual is currently being sought by law enforcement.
Carson, who was attacked, is part of the LGBTQ+ community in St. Catharines. His mother shared with CHCH News that he was set upon while enjoying a night out with friends.
“I don’t understand why this is happening to him. He didn’t fight back at all,” cries Lisa Mc Coy as she views footage of her 25-year-old son being assaulted on the sidewalk.
“He just lay there while they kept hitting him,” says Mc Coy.
Lisa states that Carson was beaten until he lost consciousness and was taken to the hospital with severe injuries.
“He had a cone on and his face was so swollen and bruised. I tried not to cry, but I couldn’t help it, and he cried too; I hugged him tight and told him everything would be alright,” says Mc Coy.
According to Niagara police, the situation escalated from a verbal dispute into physical violence.
Samantha Jacobs, 41 years old from St. Catharines, was arrested at the location. She faces charges of assault causing bodily harm.
Authorities are searching for another male suspect involved in the attack.
Detectives from the Criminal Investigations Bureau are exploring whether there’s a hate motivation behind this incident.
Pride Niagara believes it likely is hate-related.
“The community’s reaction has been one of outrage and shock. The footage clearly shows that while disagreements can happen, escalating to physically assaulting someone until they’re left unconscious is pure hate,” comments Enzo De Divitiis, chair of Pride Niagara.
The Niagara police acknowledge they’re aware of various social media discussions about this event and its underlying motives.
They continue to verify the accuracy of these claims during their investigation.
For now, Lisa is left asking herself, “Why my son?”
“Whatever their reasons were… there were three attackers who ambushed him from behind. He didn’t stand a chance,” says Mc Coy.
Carson studies full-time at Niagara College and works part-time; however, his recovery process will be challenging ahead.
A Go Fund Me page has been established for Carson and his family to assist them during this tough time.
“He suffered two facial fractures and his eye muscles are trapped within those fractures as well; we’re seeing a specialist – a plastic surgeon – tomorrow for surgery options. I just wish this wasn’t happening. Everyone should be accepted for who they are without being harmed or judged,” expresses Mc Coy.
The Niagara police urge anyone who witnessed the attack or possesses video evidence to step forward with information.
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