Woodstock Police Service briefs

Pritpal Thind, the Woodstock Police Service Community Services and Media Relations Officer, recently attended the Sri Lankan Sun Festival in the city and was actively involved in the celebration. The festival, known as Aluth Avurudu, marks the traditional Sri Lankan New Year. (WPS Photo)

Charges laid after victim set ablaze

The Woodstock Fire Department and Oxford County Paramedic Services responded to a residence on Finkle Street in Woodstock on April 20 for a report of a person suffering burn injuries. The injured individual was transported to hospital for treatment.

Police were able to determine that multiple individuals known to each other were gathered at the residence when an argument occurred. During the altercation, one individual threw a flammable substance onto another individual and ignited it, causing serious injuries.

After a five-day investigation, police arrested a 44-year-old city man and charged him with aggravated assault, arson causing bodily harm, and four counts of possession of fire, ammunition or explosive substances contrary to a prohibition order.

The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing.

Bomb threat at Woodstock school

Police were notified of a bomb threat at Springbank Public School on Sprucedale Road just after 11 a.m. on April 29.

Officers thoroughly searched the premises, no suspicious items were located, and the report was determined to be unfounded. The incident resulted in an increased police presence in the area as officers ensured the safety of students and staff while conducting their investigation.

“The investigation into the source of the threat is ongoing, and police say further information will be provided if appropriate,” said police in a release.

“The Woodstock Police Service thanks the Thames Valley District School Board for its cooperation and assistance during the investigation,” it added.

The Woodstock Police Service would like to encourage anyone with information about any of these investigations to contact them at 519-537-2323 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).