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Two teens arrested in connection to 'violent attack' in Barrie

'We believe these are the two individuals responsible for the violent attack that took place,' says police official following pair of arrests this morning
07172023seriousassaultmeridian
City police are investigating a serious assault which occurred Monday morning at Meridian Place in downtown Barrie.

Barrie police say they have arrested two teenagers in connection to what has previously been termed a "vicious" assault early Monday morning at Meridian Place. 

Two males, both 18 years old, were arrested without incident around 10 a.m., Wednesday, at a home in central Barrie. They have been charged with aggravated assault. 

"We believe these are the two individuals responsible for the violent attack that took place," Barrie police communications co-ordinator Peter Leon said. 

No names have been released. Both of the accused are scheduled to appear in bail court later today. 

The 58-year-old male victim remains in serious condition at a Toronto hospital. He was initially said to have suffered life-threatening injuries in the assault. 

Barrie police officers responded to 87 Dunlop St. E. for a report of a fight at 12:53 a.m., July 17, involving a man, three males and a female.

Upon arrival at the scene, police located the victim, who had sustained serious facial injuries. He was immediately transported to a local hospital by the County of Simcoe Paramedic Services and was later transported by air ambulance to a Toronto trauma centre.

Police say no weapons were involved in the assault, which took place near the Meridian Place stage, close to one of the built-in seating areas.

Investigators had cordoned off the stage area Monday morning, where there appeared to be a large blood stain on the concrete.

Images from the incident, which was captured on video, were released by city police on Monday.

The female who was pictured in surveillance images "may be a witness," Leon said. 

Investigators are still trying to determine the role the third male suspect may have played in the assault. 

Police say more information will be released once the investigation is complete. 

Anyone with information contact the Barrie Police Service by calling 705-725-7025, ext. 2601, for Sgt. William Pelan, or ext. 2627 for Det. Const. Jonathan Watt.