A 54-year man is in custody following a stabbing incident at the Fernie Hotel. The victim, a 55-year-old male, was treated for non life-threatening wounds received during the altercation in Fernie.
On Monday, November 4, at approximately 9:30 pm the Elk Valley RCMP responded to a report of a stabbing incident at the Fernie Hotel located on 1st Avenue.
Police spoke to the victim, who alleged that he was attacked by a 54-year-old male suspect armed with a knife. Investigators spoke to other patrons and staff with preliminary findings indicating that the incident occurred in the hotel’s common room. The injured victim was able to make his way to the hotel’s licensed lounge area where staff and patrons assisted him.
Investigators located the suspect who had returned to his respective room; the man was taken into custody without incident.
The victim was transported to the Elk Valley Hospital where he was treated for non life-threatening injuries. The men knew each other and were renters at the hotel.
Both men are also known to the police.
“Attacks of this nature are unusual for this area,” said Elk Valley RCMP. “The victim was targeted specifically. At the initial investigation alcohol appears to be involved with the suspect.”
At press time, Elk Valley RCMP was in full-blown investigation mode. RCMP were drafting a request for a search warrant to gain entry to the suspect’s room. Based on their findings, the RCMP may ask the Crown that the suspect be held until trial.
“The preliminary investigation shows this was an unprovoked attack and the victim was specific,” said RCMP.
RCMP is consulting with the Crown on the formal laying of charges. The matter will be dealt with through a bail hearing or an appearance before a judge.
Investigators with the Elk Valley RCMP are asking that anyone with information about the incident, who have not spoken to police yet, are to contact the Elk Valley RCMP at 250-425-6233 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.