Winnipeg, MB – A group of children playing near a park in Winnipeg’s Centennial neighborhood were left shaken after one of them was allegedly assaulted by a man near an encampment, according to police.
The incident happened around 2:30 p.m. on October 8, 2025, near the intersection of Pacific Avenue and Ellen Street, where an encampment had been set up. Police said one child was targeted when a man allegedly threw a water bottle at him before chasing the group down the street while yelling.
According to the Winnipeg Police Service, the children ran to safety and alerted a parent, who was able to photograph the suspect and contact officers. The child was not physically injured.
Police later located the suspect at the nearby encampment and arrested him without further incident.
Ryan Mark Vivier, 27, was charged with assault with a weapon and remains in custody, authorities said.
The incident has raised renewed concerns among residents about safety around park encampments in the area, though police emphasized that this appeared to be an isolated incident.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more local updates and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
