Winnipeg teen injured in machete attack at shopping mall: police

A 14-year-old boy is recovering after a shopping trip to Polo Park Friday night ended in severe injury.

Winnipeg police say the victim was attacked with a machete and robbed by three people who did not know him.

West district officers were called to the scene, attended to the teen, then began their search for the assailants.

The chase led police to three teens aged 13, 14 and 15 years old. The youngest is facing charges for this alleged crime, but also for allegedly failing to comply with a previous sentence. He and the 14-year-old remain in custody while the 15-year-old was released on an undertaking.

Police say while each crime is individual, they do see some of the same youth offenders.

“It’s very concerning for Winnipeg police,” said WPS Cst. Patrick Saydak. “Obviously, we don’t like youth violence and we want everybody safe when they come and shop at our malls or anywhere else in Winnipeg for that matter.”

Last year, youth crime rose by about 29 per cent over the five-year average. Violent youth crime was up 31 per cent over the same period, despite a small drop from 2023.

READ: Violent crime, youth crime increase in 2023: Winnipeg crime report

“It’s certainly concerning when we see an increase in youth-involved crime,” said Sherry Gott, Manitoba Advocate for Children and Youth. “While all citizens, including youth, must bear the responsibilities of their own actions, it’s realistic to say that these actions are reflective of a larger systemic failure.

Gott is calling for more resources and supports for youth, including for things like arts and sports programming. She always wants to see an updated gang prevention strategy from the province.

“My hope would be that the Government of Manitoba take a very real look at what is happening in communities throughout the province, and commit to working with and alongside service providers, Indigenous governing bodies, and youth to address systemic issues,” she said.

Last year, the province banned sales of machetes to anyone under 18 along with other regulations in an effort to curb these crimes.

“I think machetes are still a thing that not only youth, but adults use in crimes,” Saydak said. “I don’t have statistics to speak to that but we do still see machetes out there.”

Police say Friday’s attack was an isolated incident.

“I believe that people should think that they are safe to either go shopping, go to the park, go for a walk,” Saydak said. “But you know, just be cognizant. A good rule of thumb is to always go in a group if possible.”