LRT passenger attacked, shouted; Police have filed hate charges

On By Pranco

A person was riding the light rail transit system (LRT) in Ottawa on November 16 when two people approached them.

According to police, the two men “unprovoked” began attacking the victim while making “hateful” and “derogatory” comments about the person’s race around 6:40 p.m.

When the victim did not respond, one of the suspects attacked them with a weapon.

As the two men exited the train, they continued to shout hateful comments so all passengers could hear, a police news release said.

The victim suffered serious injuries as a result of the incident and was taken to hospital.

Police have committed hate crimes against the two suspects.

Phillip Hudson-Berry, 35, of Ottawa was charged with:

  • Heavy attack
  • Assault with a weapon
  • Possession of a weapon that is dangerous to the public
  • Making threats
  • Mischief, interference with property
  • Causing disruption
  • Wantonness

Dillion Graham-Laurence, 30, of Ottawa was charged with:

  • Raid
  • Assault with a weapon
  • Mischief, interference with property
  • Causing disruption
  • Violation of probation

Both appeared in court on Sunday and are still in custody.

“We continue to encourage anyone who witnesses such incidents report them to the police,” the press release reads. “Reporting hate-motivated incidents is an important step in breaking cycles of hate.”

Anonymously tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477(TIPS).