SASKATOON — Saskatoon Police are investigating two bear spray incidents that occurred within a few minutes of each other on Idylwyld Drive North.
In the first occurrence, at approximately 9:45 p.m., Sept. 7, police were called to a report of an injured man at a restaurant in the 1600 block of Idylwyld Drive North where they found a 38-year-old man who was suffering from the effects of bear spray. Police say he reported being approached while walking nearby by a male who asked him for a cigarette before deploying the spray.
While they were still at that location, police say, they were called to a similar incident on the 1800 block of Idywyld Drive North. There, a 62-year-old woman was found suffering from the effects of bear spray. She reported sitting in her vehicle when she was approached by a male who asked for money and a cigarette before deploying bear spray.
Both victims were treated at the scene, say police, and a male matching the suspect’s description was located nearby in possession of bear spray. Charges are pending.
Bear spray attacks have been frequent in Saskatoon, leading city council to amend its bylaw to make the product less accessible. Police have reported incidents where bear spray, intended as a wildlife deterrent, was instead weaponized in assaults. The bylaw change prohibits sales to minors and requires retailers to record purchaser information. City officials and police have said the goal is to curb misuse without limiting access for those who need bear spray for legitimate outdoor safety.
