Urgent: OPP Search for Suspect in Assault Near Renfrew, Ontario

UPDATE: Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are actively searching for a suspect after a woman reported being held against her will and sexually assaulted at a motel in Renfrew, Ontario. The incident, which occurred just west of Ottawa, has prompted a significant police response, with authorities confirming that the suspect fled into the nearby Algonquin Trail area.

On Thursday, July 14, 2023, the victim sought medical attention at a local hospital, where she disclosed the traumatic details of her ordeal. Police have indicated that the suspect, whom the victim knows personally, was armed with a handgun at the time of the assault. Shortly after the report was made, officers responded to the scene, but the suspect had already left the motel located on Raglan Street North.

Around 9 p.m., a shelter-in-place order was issued as officers spotted the suspect in the vicinity. Despite a thorough search involving OPP emergency response teams, canine units, and tactical rescue personnel, the suspect managed to evade capture and disappeared into the Algonquin Trail area. The shelter-in-place was lifted shortly before 1 a.m. on Friday, but the search for the suspect continues.

Officials have identified the individual wanted in connection to this case and are seeking an arrest warrant. The suspect is described as being between five feet nine inches and six feet tall, with shaved sides and hair on top. He has a goatee and notable tattoos, including a five-star tattoo above his left eyebrow and another tattoo under his left eye. When last seen, he was wearing a purple plaid jacket, possibly black shorts, and a blue shirt.

Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant. Anyone who sees this individual or notices any suspicious activity is advised to call 911 immediately. Residents are cautioned not to approach the suspect. OPP have also called on the suspect to surrender himself to the Renfrew OPP.

The police are particularly interested in obtaining any relevant doorbell, dashcam, or surveillance footage that may aid in locating the suspect. Individuals with information are encouraged to reach out to the Renfrew OPP at 1-888-310-1122, referencing incident number E251166365, or to contact Crime Stoppers.

As the situation develops, OPP will continue to provide updates to ensure the safety of the Renfrew community and to apprehend the suspect involved in this alarming incident. Stay tuned for further developments.