Author: Mohsin Abbas

By: Evan Mathias , Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The Fight Like Mason Foundation had another resounding success as Paper Heroes Comic Book Lounge held their 8th annual Free Comic Book Day fundraiser last month.

The event, which started in 2017 started as a small BBQ and was one of the first fundraisers that FLM (Fight Like Mason) was a part of when they became an organization.

“Scott from Paper Heroes reached out… he wanted to incorporate a charity into their Free Comic Book Day. It’s something that hadn’t really been done,” said FLM Founder Iain Macri. “It started off with a little BBQ. We did some interacting with the public and made it a fun event. That continued year over year and as our charity has grown as well, the event has grown and it has become a staple.”

While the fundraiser started out small, it has consistently grown over the years and this installment of the event was the most successful to date, with Paper Heroes raising over $4,500 for the Foundation.

“Just in terms of numbers I think Scott was able to raise around $1,000 that first year and now this year raising over $4500,” said Macri. “Collectively over the years we’re flirting with, or just over $20,000 for our Foundation. It’s kind of a testament to the community coming together for a fun cause. It’s an opportunity to showcase the generosity of the community.”

The day starts early, with Macri and a number of volunteers setting up their FLM tents and merchandising tables for the community to be able to support the foundation. Everyone gets geared up in their super-hero uniforms and then it’s showtime with doors at Paper Heroes opening around 10 a.m.

“Everyone who is in attendance gets three free comic books and Scott does a lot of massive sales in the store for his regular merchandise and books. He also puts on a raffle for us as well as a community BBQ. One hundred per cent of those donations come back to the FLM Foundation,” said Macri.

With the event annually running for so long, Macri has seen many of the same people out supporting the cause.

“We had a great turnout and it’s kind of cool. I recognize a lot of the same faces year over year that come out,” said Macri. “Some kids have grown – they were four when they first came out and now they’re 11 or 12 and they’re still dressing up and getting their comic books and enjoying all the pop culture favourite characters.”

FLM prides itself on holding fun, positive events as fundraisers, bringing light to a normally sensitive and taboo conversation.

“That’s kind of what we do for everything with Fight Like Mason, we change it from a tragedy into something heroic. Everything we do is to showcase the empowerment that we’re doing as a charity. It’s all about empowering the kids and empowering the family and giving them something to rally behind,” said Macri. “That’s the key for us… communicating the need in a positive and powerful way, to make it not taboo – no one wants to talk about childhood cancer, its an awful topic for anyone. If you can do it in a positive way that inspires or educates someone, that’s what our mission was to do, to change it from something taboo to something that’s OK to talk about.”

Next up is their biggest event of the year, the FLM Classic charity golf tournament on July 12. Registration is still open. For more information or for opportunities to get engaged, visit www.fightlikemason.org

By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Chatham-Kent Police dealt with nearly 600 calls for service between May 23 and 25, with multiple arrests stemming from thefts, domestic incidents, bail violations and impaired driving.

Over the 72-hour period, officers made 22 arrests and responded to 598 total calls, including 117 reportable incidents, 54 property checks and 17 community patrols.

Among the more serious incidents were two separate retail thefts on St. Clair Street in Chatham.

On May 23, officers responded to a report of two women concealing merchandise at a retail store. Loss prevention staff apprehended a 35-year-old woman from Chatham at the scene, while a second woman, 51, fled on foot, discarding items as she ran. Both were later arrested and charged with theft under $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime. They were also issued trespass notices and released with a court date of June 23.

The following morning, officers were again called to a retail store on St. Clair Street after two suspects reportedly exited with a large quantity of unpaid merchandise. A 56-year-old Windsor man was arrested in the parking lot. A 44-year-old Windsor woman attempted to flee but was caught shortly after, and a third suspect — a 31-year-old woman from Chatham-Kent — was found with the stolen items. All three face multiple charges, including possession of stolen property and obstructing police. The male and one female suspect remain in custody; the other woman was released with a court date.

Police were also called to a domestic incident on St. George Street in Chatham on May 25. A verbal dispute between two men escalated into threats and physical contact. A 31-year-old Chatham man was charged with uttering threats and released on conditions, including no contact with the victim.

Construction site break-in leads to charges

On May 22, police were called to a home under construction on Northland Drive in Chatham, where a man was spotted unlawfully entering the building. A 27-year-old man was later located nearby and arrested. He is facing charges including break and enter, possession of stolen property, mischief, and breach of probation, and remains in custody pending a bail hearing.

Impaired driving complaint results in arrest

Later the same evening, officers responded to a complaint of a possible impaired driver on King Street West. A vehicle matching the description was stopped on St. Clair Street. A 35-year-old man from Alberta was arrested after breath tests confirmed his blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit. He was released with a future court date.

Repeat offenders arrested in Wallaceburg

Earlier in the week, a 35-year-old Wallaceburg man was arrested after allegedly assaulting and threatening a woman known to him during a domestic dispute. He remains in custody following the May 21 incident.

In a separate case, police arrested a 50-year-old Wallaceburg man for breaching bail conditions related to earlier charges of property damage. He was found in a prohibited area and is also being held for bail.

Warrant arrest made after suspect flees on foot

On May 20, a 34-year-old man wanted on warrants for assault and multiple failures to attend court was arrested after being spotted walking along Keil Drive in Chatham. The suspect attempted to evade police by hiding in a nearby bush but was located and taken into custody.

Police remind residents that all individuals charged are considered innocent until proven guilty in court.

The Chatham-Kent Police Service encourages anyone with information related to ongoing investigations to contact them or reach out anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The 11th annual Tilbury Titans Soccer Tournament wrapped up in May with high-energy play, sportsmanship and fierce competition from high school teams across southwestern Ontario, including Windsor, London, Chatham and Sarnia.

Hosted by Tilbury District High School, the long-running event has become a spring tradition, drawing top soccer talent to the community and giving young athletes a chance to compete at a high level. The 2025 tournament was no exception, with dozens of teams vying for titles in multiple pools.

Among this year’s standout performances was the senior girls’ team from St. Anne Catholic High School in Lakeshore, which captured the A-pool championship. The team successfully defended its title for a second consecutive year, with support from four junior players called up for the tournament.

“Congratulations to the senior girls’ soccer team (and four members of the junior team) in defending their title at the annual Tilbury Titan Cup,” the school shared in a post following the win.

Parents and supporters packed the sidelines throughout the event, creating a festival-like atmosphere despite rainy weather during early matches.

“It’s such a fantastic event,” said Megan Drouillard, a parent from Comber. “You can really see how hard these girls work, and the sportsmanship from all the teams was impressive.”

“We’ve been coming to this tournament for years, and it just keeps getting better,” added Kevin Marshall, a parent from Chatham-Kent. “It’s well organized and a great showcase for high school talent.”

Organizers say the tournament not only promotes healthy competition but also helps foster strong community ties through sport. As the tournament continues to grow, schools and families alike look forward to returning each year.

St. Anne’s championship win is expected to give the team momentum heading into the WECSSAA playoffs later this spring. With experienced leadership and a rising crop of junior players already making an impact, the Titans may have handed the crown over — but St. Anne’s is proving it’s a powerhouse to watch.

By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

At its May 20, 2025, meeting, Lakeshore council approved the rental of a temporary facility to house the Stoney Point library branch. The decision follows the closure of the original location earlier this year due to air quality concerns.

Council unanimously approved the transfer of $80,000 from reserves to fund a temporary library and washroom facility at Stoney Point Park for up to one year.

The branch was closed April 30 after patrons reported throat and eye irritation during warmer weather.

With construction planned at Stoney Point Community Park, the temporary library is now expected to be placed in the parking lot of the former Stoney Point Tavern, purchased by the town in 2023.

“We know how important this facility is to community members, and we’ve prioritized the project to ensure they can access the library branch as soon as possible,” said Frank Jeney, corporate leader of community health and safety.

Council also approved a motion directing administration to bring forward a report on options for a semi-permanent solution for the Stoney Point library facility.

The allocated funds will cover a 60-foot open-plan trailer, a separate washroom unit, and all associated installation, setup and safety measures for a one-year period.

An opening date for the temporary site has not yet been confirmed. However, a statement from the municipality said, “Lakeshore will be working with the Essex County Library to determine a timeline for the swift return of library services to the community of Stoney Point/Pointe-aux-Roches. We understand how critical this facility is to community members and are dedicated to making it happen as quickly as possible.”

Council also passed a notice of motion directing administration to prepare a report on options for a semi-permanent library solution in Stoney Point.

By: Devan Mighton, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

This May, three representatives of Alpha Gymnastics Academy competed at the Eastern Canadian Gymnastics Championships in Oshawa, all helping Team Ontario to finish in first place in the overall team competition. Alpha Gymnastics is owned and operated by 2008 Beijing Olympian Robert Stanescu and his wife, fellow gymnast Ruxandra Stanescu.

On the girl’s side of the competition, Lilian Livingston competed in Level 7 (11-12 years old) earning a silver on the balance beam.

“The Eastern Competition was exciting!” exclaims Lilian. “It was fun to be part of Team Ontario and compete against the other provinces. The competition began with a grand entry opening ceremony, on Day 1, where all the athletes rallied to display the many flags representing each province.”

She says that she endeavours to develop and learn new skills and hopes to qualify for the Canadian Championships in 2026.

“My ultimate goal is to compete for Team Canada in the Olympics,” adds Lilian. “I am determined to work hard and train many hours to fulfill my dreams of representing my country.”

On the boy’s side, Liam Pangilinan and Nathaniel Workman represented Alpha Gymnastics in Level 2 (11+ years old). Liam finished second place all-around, taking bronze on rings, vault, and parallel bars, and also silver on pommel horse and high bar.

“The event was really fun and exciting,” says Liam. “It was really cool seeing different athletes from other provinces.”

Liam admits he was nervous as the event started, but his confidence grew as the championships went on. “It was a happy moment placing so well and helping Team Ontario get first place,” he adds. “I felt like my hard work preparing for this competition season really paid off.”

Liam says that he hopes to move up a level in competition and hopefully make Nationals next year, but his dream is to make the Olympics someday, much like his coach did in 2008.

Nathaniel impressively captured first place all-around at the event, winning gold in pommel horse, vault, and high bar, and a bronze for his floor exercise.

“It always feels good to place well but it is especially cool when you and your teammates are doing it for your province!” states Nathaniel. “(Oshawa) was much like the Ontario Championships that we went to in Amherstburg this year. I actually preferred the venue and setup in Amherstburg, but it is a super experience getting to hear the other provinces’ fans and compete against their athletes at this competition.”

Nathaniel was not a fan of the trampoline event running simultaneously with the events he was competing in, but was appreciative of the lively home crowd that cheered Ontario on. He adds that he would like to compete at next year’s Nationals and hopes to one day get a college scholarship and get a chance at the Olympics like his coach did.

“All three athletes also achieved placements between fourth and eighth in various categories, demonstrating consistency and excellence across the board,” added Coach Robert Stanescu.

In addition to the amazing performances of Lily, Liam, and Nathaniel, Alpha Gymnast Daniel Hodare will also be representing Team Ontario at the 2025 Canadian Gymnastics Championships in Calgary at the end of May.

“I am so thrilled to once again represent Ontario in the upcoming 2025 Canadian National Championships in Calgary, Alberta,” says Daniel. “It is always an honour to show what our province can do on the national stage while competing against the very best in the country. I have been working towards this goal for many years and have been dreaming of this moment all season.”

Daniel says he will be competing solely on the still rings this year, and is ready to show his full potential and put on a show for the spectators.

“I am so thankful for this opportunity to compete with my friends, for the support of all those around me throughout the season, and for this chance to share my gratitude with the community,” he added.

By: Matt Weingarden , Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

A retired military man has taken up the cause to assist fellow homeless veterans.

Ken MacKay, of Port Dover is walking over 800 kms from Windsor to Ottawa as part of his ‘Trek 4 Vets’ project. He is hoping to raise funds to assist those in need.

“This is a partnership with an organization named Homes for Heroes, a nonprofit that builds villages with tiny homes and support services for military veterans,” he explained. “So, I’m raising funds and awareness for our homeless veterans.

MacKay estimates that there are anywhere from 2,500 to 10,000 homeless veterans across Canada.

“There could be more because veterans are very proud and they don’t want to ask for help,” MacKay said. “So, a lot of them couch surf and go from place to place. It takes them a lot to ask for help.”

MacKay, 65, joined Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry when he was 18 and served for three years. Later, he spent nine years as a reservist with the 48th Highlanders.

Homes for Heroes has established villages in Calgary, Edmonton, and Kingston, Ont., with expansion planned for Winnipeg and London.

“Through relationships I’ve established with other vets I’ve seen first- hand many suffering from PTSD and struggling with addiction and trauma because of the sacrifices they made,” he added.

“Those who did go overseas and were in combat or have seen horrible things. They’re affected. Many are living on the streets, and I don’t think our government is doing enough to help them. They sacrificed a lot and some of them are being forgotten.”

The journey required plenty of strategic planning and says with the help of legions and members across the province have been paramount to the success of the trip.

According to his plan the trek will take 42 days.

“With the help of his support team, we were able to figure out that there are legions approximately every 25 kms along the route,” he said. “I’ve been very fortunate to find plenty of people willing to assist and put me up for the night.”

While in Belle River, he stayed with Legion president Richard Brooks.

MacKay now serves as sergeant at arms at his local legion in Port Dover, where the organization held a BBQ to send him on his way and raising $10,000. With a solid pair of walking shoes and a backpack containing only the essentials, he took the train to Windsor on April 26th.

Upon Leaving Windsor, he made stops in Belle River, Tilbury and Chatham Kent.

MacKay is no stranger to long treks, but he admits this will be the longest walk he’s ever attempted. MacKay says that he has done two “Caminos” – mountain pilgrimages in Spain and Portugal that are hundreds of kilometres long.

The walk will be no easy feat, given the unpredictable weather. He will walk six days out of the week, allowing one day to do laundry and rest his body.

“I like walking solo…it’s a form of meditation for me, I like having not to think about anything in particular,” he laughed.

He is halfway to his goal when the Lakeshore News caught up with him just outside of Toronto last week.

“Things have been going really well,” MacKay said. “The weather has been co operating and I’ve met some great people along the way.”

To date, he has raised just under $40,000.

“Last week, I stopped at a cheese factory outside of Kitchener, the people were so nice…they gave me a bunch of their product, however I was only to keep a small bit as it would go bad…along the way people have been so generous.”

By: Isabelle Bujold, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

The Bluebirds kicked off the regular season with high hopes, building on the momentum from last year, and finished with a record of 15 wins and nine losses.

Much of the team’s success can be credited to a few standout players. Forward Jake Durham, who joined from Alvinston at the trade deadline, quickly established himself as the other half of a 1-2 punch with Dylan Denomme up front. A dynamic, high-impact player, Durham brought an immediate offensive spark—especially in the postseason, where he scored an incredible 14 goals in 11 games.

Dylan Denomme, the team’s captain since the very beginning and a consistently strong offensive force, solidified that reputation by earning league MVP honours this year. He posted a jaw-dropping 142 points in 64 games.

On defence, Cole Butler and Zack Bedard have been staples for the past two seasons. From blocking shots to killing penalties, their reliability and physical presence have made them invaluable in all situations.

In the playoffs, the Bluebirds fought hard in the opening round, advancing in three games. Facing a tough opponent in the second round, they ultimately fell short against Tilsonburg, finishing their playoff run with a 4-2 record. While the exit was disappointing, the team showed promise and ended the season ranked fourth overall.

Assistant captain Adam Hughes reflected on the season’s ups and downs, emphasizing the importance of attention to detail and playing a complete game.

“We were much better defensively and played with more accountability in our own end,” said Hughes.

“After our playoff run, I think we really understand how the small things during a game can influence the outcome—being first on pucks, laying the body, and making smart plays at the bluelines.”

When asked about the team’s performance and playoff outcome, Hughes remained optimistic.

“We preached all year about how good we could be, and it really showed going into the final stretch of the season; we have top-end talent throughout our whole lineup,” he said. “It’s always tough losing in the playoffs, especially exiting in the second round for the third year, but we made a huge stride beating Tilsonburg in the first round. That really shows the growth of our team year over year.”

While the season didn’t end with a championship, the team took away several valuable lessons. One of the biggest, said Hughes, is that the Bluebirds are poised to be even more competitive next year.

“Even though we finished this year in sixth (in the regular season), there’s no doubt in any of our minds that we’re a top-three team in our league,” he said.

“We have a great core of guys and being able to experience the adversity and physicality of a playoff run together really sets the tone for a strong season next year. We know what it takes to compete—and win—at the top level in our league, and we’re right there.”

With that mindset, the Bluebirds are already looking ahead. The focus will be on building on this year’s foundation and striving for more consistency. The team and coaching staff have already started working on offseason strategies to bolster the lineup and fine-tune systems.

With a solid core returning, the goal remains the same: push deeper into the playoffs and capture the cup.

By: Devan Mighton, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Stoney Point resident Mitch Snaden has been on a journey. A former radio host in Essex and Kent counties with CHUM Group and Blackburn Media, he was last heard on the airwaves with Kara Ro on Windsor’s Country.

Thirty-five years ago, he started to get serious about sail boating, and when a friend of his purchased at 24-ft. C&C, they shared sailing times together for years.

This January, Snaden made the journey of a lifetime, sailing from Thailand to Sri Lanka for two months as a part of a crew.

“There were major changes happening in my life when I came across a post on Facebook from the people, Shawn Dear and Ally Cochrane, I ended up sailing with,” explains Snaden. “Their story intrigued me as they are circumnavigating and were, and still are, looking for crew to experience this trip with them. Every month is a leg and up to six people can join them each month to be part of the adventure. I chose to meet them in Phuket, Thailand and stay for two months, January and February. I departed from the ship in Galle, Sri Lanka.”

As he recalls his odyssey across Indochina, Snaden described his trip as one of soul-searching, of self-discovery. He says that the ship was biggest highlight of the trip to him, riding upon a 42-ft. Catamaran in the open ocean.

“We had a crew of six on the first leg from Phuket to the Andaman Islands,” he describes. “Shawn and Ally, of course, owners of the boat, myself, a young lady from New Zealand and a married couple who were from Holland and Russia – but call Bulgaria home.”

He says that each leg lasted 25 days, and at the end of each leg, the crew departs while the owners prep for the next go. After five layover days, a new crew boards for the first of the month.

It was a magical adventure. Snaden saw pilot whales and their ship was often frequented by dolphins. They island hopped while in Thailand and the Andaman Islands, dropping anchor to snorkel and see the copious coral life. He says that there were numerous secluded white sand beaches and the beautiful blue waters reached as far as the eyes could see.

“Sunsets and sunrises, as well moon rises and sets, were spectacular and when there was no moon, the stars filled the skies,” he recalls. “Being on the helm at 2 a.m. on a two-hour night watch is a humbling experience, as you realize just how insignificant you are in this universe.”

He met many fascinating people on his voyage.

“On the second leg of my trip, from the Andaman Islands to Sri Lanka, our crew saw the arrival of a couple from South Africa and Italy who met in their 20’s when they were in France on ski holidays, dated for awhile, and then separated for 30 years. Then, because life is filled with circumstances, they reunited and now are together again.”

Before leaving, they spent a day familiarizing themselves with the boat and learning the ground rules for surviving 25 days together in close quarters.

“Our open-water trips lasted for three days and four nights from Thailand to the Andaman Islands,” he recalls. “We landed in their major town called Port Blair, which had both Allied and Japanese occupation during World War 2. There are remnants of those occupations through the archipelago of islands around Port Blair. The port is a major naval base for the Indian Navy, so there is a lot of official boat traffic. We were boarded numerous times by various authorities in the short time we were anchored in Port Blair. Certainly not a highlight of the trip.”

He says that the trip from Port Blair to Sri Lanka took almost eight nights.

“We dropped anchor just as the sun was setting on the eighth evening,” says Snaden. “[There were] full days where all you could see was water. No other boats on the seas until the last day, as we approached Sri Lanka. It’s an amazing feeling to look out and see no other humans.”

As every country has different rules and customs, the crew were not allowed to roam around the Sri Lankan coast looking for secluded spots, so they had to tie up to the jetty at the main harbour in Galle.

He says that the journey brought him peace and a greater appreciation for all the people in his life, as well as a realization of how lucky he has been.

Snaden hopes to rejoin Shawn and Ally on their boat, SY Imagination, when they arrive back in the Caribbean in 2026. However, he doesn’t plan to rest on his laurels, as he is on the lookout on social media for other people looking for crew members that he can help out and join in their adventures as well.

By: Isabelle Bujold, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Each spring, Memorial Park in Tilbury hosts hundreds of children as they hunt for colourful eggs. For more than 40 years, the Tilbury Kinsmen have brought Easter magic to the community—first in partnership with Phylis and the late Don McKenzie for 35 years, and independently for the past five.

On average, the Easter egg hunt draws hundreds of children, with peak years reaching up to 800 participants. In the week leading up to the big day, students from Tilbury Area Public School head to Memorial Park to help prepare the space by picking up sticks and garbage. Their efforts are rewarded with pizza, which was kindly donated this year by Domino’s.

Though the Tilbury Kinsmen sponsor the event in full, the support of the community plays a vital role. Donations from generous businesses, service clubs and individuals help fund the event, which costs roughly $5,000 annually and includes raffle prizes like bikes and other gifts.

“We wish to acknowledge our residents from Hudson Manor and their volunteers for packing our candy bags for the past 35 years,” said Tim Natyshak, co-chair of the Kinsmen.

“We enjoy our time with them and they love that they can be a part of our Easter egg hunt.”

This year alone, volunteers packed 4,500 candy bags.

With just 13 Kinsmen members, planning begins six weeks in advance. That’s when donation letters are sent, posters go up, the park is booked through the municipality and the call for volunteers goes out. By the time the event arrives, the volunteer team—which includes school kids, seniors and community members—totals around 50 to 60 people.

For Natyshak, his favourite moments include the thank-yous, the giant smiles and the sheer joy radiating from the children.

“The most memorable moment was the year we had 800 participants,” he said. “The park was buzzing and the kids were having a ball.”

Beyond Easter, the Tilbury Kinsmen stay active year-round. On May 31, they’ll host their second annual Cystic Fibrosis Golf Tournament at the Tilbury Golf Course, after raising more than $8,000 last year. In September, their End of Summer Bash brings free live music from local bands to the park behind the arena.

They also support community initiatives year-round—from running the adult beverage bar at Bluebirds hockey games to sponsoring soccer, bursaries and Canada Day fireworks in partnership with the BIA.

True to their motto, Serving the community’s greatest needs, the Kinsmen are a constant source of generosity in Tilbury.

“I would be remiss if I didn’t mention our fellow service clubs in Tilbury who always support us in our projects, as we do with them,” said Natyshak.

Speaking on behalf of himself and co-chair Keith Edwards, Natyshak offered a heartfelt message to the community.

“Your support over the years means the world to us and to the families of our community,” he said.

By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

Chatham-Kent police responded to a series of incidents in early April involving impaired driving, domestic disputes, public mischief and assaults. Several individuals from Chatham, Tilbury, Wallaceburg and Blenheim were arrested and charged in separate cases. Some remain in custody pending bail hearings, while others have been released with future court dates.

Man arrested twice in one day

A 44-year-old Chatham man was arrested twice on April 10 following two separate incidents involving suspected drug impairment and attempted theft, according to Chatham-Kent police.

The first incident occurred around 12:05 p.m., when officers were called for a wellness check after an unconscious man was found inside a vehicle parked at a local business in Chatham. Police located the man in the driver’s seat. After multiple attempts, they woke him and directed him out of the vehicle. Officers noted signs of impairment and discovered drug paraphernalia in the car.

The man was taken to hospital for evaluation by a drug recognition expert, who determined he was impaired by a central nervous system stimulant and a narcotic analgesic. He was arrested and charged, then released with a court date set for April 28.

Later that day, around 3:56 p.m., police responded to a theft complaint at a building on Grand Avenue West. A man was reportedly seen attempting to steal items from a basement hallway. When confronted by security personnel, the suspect allegedly refused to cooperate and attempted to flee. Police say a brief physical altercation occurred, during which the suspect struck one of the complainants.

Officers identified the man as the same individual arrested earlier in the day and took him into custody again. He was transported to Chatham-Kent Police Service headquarters, where he remains in custody pending a bail hearing.

Two people charged after domestic disturbance

A 78-year-old man and a 61-year-old woman have been charged following a domestic-related incident in Wallaceburg. Police were called to a residence in the northeast area of the community, where they found a 73-year-old woman outside the home. A man and another woman were located inside. Police say a verbal argument stemming from a relationship breakdown escalated into a physical altercation. Both the man and woman were arrested. The 61-year-old woman was released with a court date set for May 5. The 78-year-old man was also released with a court date scheduled for May 12 but is currently being held for bail.

Man charged after domestic dispute

A 38-year-old Chatham man is facing multiple charges after a domestic dispute involving a former partner escalated into a physical altercation and threats.

Police were called to a residence in Chatham. Upon arrival, officers learned the incident involved a man and a 36-year-old woman, both from Chatham, who had previously been in a relationship.

Investigators say the man was bound by court-ordered conditions from a prior incident, including a no-contact order and restrictions from attending locations where the victim was known to be, such as her home, workplace and school.

Despite these conditions, police say the man went to the woman’s residence, where a verbal dispute escalated into a physical confrontation and threatening statements were made. He fled the scene before officers arrived but was later located and arrested. The man was in breach of his court-ordered conditions. He has been charged and remains in custody pending a bail hearing.

Man charged after assault at retail store

A 34-year-old Chatham-Kent man is facing assault charges after police said he attacked a business owner in Tilbury and later assaulted a special constable while in custody.

Police were called to a retail store for a report of an assault. Officers say the accused, who had previously been banned from the property for trespassing, returned to the store and launched an unprovoked attack on the business owner. The victim sustained minor injuries that did not require medical treatment. Police located the suspect nearby and briefly took him into custody. While being held at police headquarters, the man allegedly became irate and spat on a special constable. He has been charged with assault and assaulting a peace officer.

Man charged after misuse of 911 calls

A 42-year-old Blenheim man is facing a public mischief charge after allegedly making multiple non-emergency calls to 911 over several days.

Police say the man contacted the emergency line five times for matters that did not require an urgent response. Officers say the man, who is known to police, was uncooperative during follow-up and was cautioned after the fourth call, but continued to misuse the service.

On April 7, around 11:04 p.m., police responded to another 911 call and located the man on Grand Avenue West in Chatham. He was arrested and charged with public mischief, then released with a court date set for May 5.

Chatham man charged for damaging vehicle

A 36-year-old Chatham man is facing charges after allegedly violating court-ordered conditions and damaging a vehicle during an incident in Chatham.

Police say the man had been bound by an undertaking since March 8 that prohibited him from being within 100 metres of a specific location in Chatham and from communicating with a 40-year-old Wallaceburg woman with whom he had previously been in a five-month intimate relationship.

On April 4, police say the man attended the restricted location and attempted to speak with the woman. When she did not respond, he allegedly threw a chair at her vehicle, causing an estimated $800 in damage. Officers arrested the man at the scene and transported him to police headquarters. He is currently being held for a bail hearing.

Man charged with impaired driving

A 58-year-old Tilbury man has been charged with impaired driving after his vehicle ended up in a water-filled ditch on Baptiste Road.

Officers were called to the scene, where they found a vehicle partially submerged in three to four feet of water. Police entered the water to assist the driver, who appeared disoriented but had no visible injuries. Following an investigation, police determined the man was impaired. He was arrested at the scene and transported for breath testing, which registered blood alcohol concentrations of 180 mg — more than twice the legal limit. He has been charged with impaired operation and operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration over 80 mg.