Calgary police are looking for unidentified victims or witnesses after the alleged random attacks on five people earlier this week.
On Jan. 4, just after 7 p.m., Calgary police were called to the 800 block of Macleod Trail SE after an apparent hit-and-run collision.
As officers were investigating the crash, they reviewed CCTV footage and saw a man walking along Macleod Trail SE between 8 and 9 Avenue and walked up to a family and struck the man. The victim fell to the ground where he was allegedly struck several times again.
The victim was able to fight back, police said and got away from the attack.
As officers further reviewed footage, a few minutes later an unknown man and woman left Arts Commons and walked towards Macleod Trail. The suspect approached the man and pointed a “finger gun” at him before allegedly hitting him, police said. The victims fled and police haven’t yet identified them.
Shortly after, the suspect approached another couple walking northbound on Macleod Trail SE. He allegedly attacked the man, hitting him in the face, police said. Police have also not spoken with that victim.
Around 7:20 p.m. the suspect approached another family leaving Olympic Plaza, going southbound on Macleod Trail. He allegedly struck the man in the face, police said. The family was able to defend itself and reported the incident to a nearby peace officer.
As officers reviewed CCTV, they saw the man go into Arts Commons where they pursued him. Once he was located, they made an arrest. One officer was injured in that incident. The officer was taken to the hospital and released, according to police.
Dawson Bailey Richardson 29, is facing several charges, including assault and mischief. He was also taken to the hospital for further evaluation. The investigation is ongoing, police said.
If the unidentified victims or anyone who may have witnessed the attack would like to come forward, they can contact the police at 403-266-1234.
