Police investigate 2nd random attack in a south Calgary park
It's not believed to be connected to a stabbing in a southeast dog park the same day
Police are investigating a random assault that happened in Fish Creek Park but say the attack is likely not connected to a random stabbing that happened in a southwest dog park the same day.
A man in his 50s was walking on a path in the park, east of Macleod Trail and on the south bank of the creek, south of Canyon Meadows Drive S.E., between 10:15 a.m. and 10:40 a.m. on Saturday, when he was hit from behind by a stranger who robbed him and then took off, police said.
The victim was taken to hospital in serious condition, police said. He's still in hospital, and it took a few days for the man to be well enough to be interviewed.
About nine hours later on Saturday, a teen who was walking with his mother was stabbed by a stranger in an off-leash dog park in Braeside, about a 10 minute drive northwest from the attack in Fish Creek Park.
Police said there's no indication at this time the two attacks are related.
"The random nature of the two incidents that occurred this weekend is extremely concerning to us," Staff Sgt. Jeff MacQueen said.
But MacQueen said the two attackers have different physical descriptions, and robbery was not a motive in the second attack.
The Fish Creek attacker is described as a 40 to 50-year-old man with brown skin, black hair and a medium build. He was wearing a black shirt with white dots and black pants.
The man who stabbed the teen in Braeside is described as white, between 40 and 50, who was wearing dark clothing, and a three-quarter length jacket with reflective markings.
MacQueen said its best to travel with other people when walking in dark or remote areas.
"I would add caution that we're not saying it's unsafe out there ... it's just, be aware of your surroundings," he said.
MacQueen said the teen injured in the stabbing is still in hospital and traumatized over the attack.
Police have reviewed CCTV in the Fish Creek area but are still asking for assistance from the public. Anyone with information is being asked to call 403-266-1234, or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.
With files from Julie Debeljak