A 45-year-old London man is facing charges after allegedly stabbing an acquaintance in the downtown core over the weekend, according to the London Police Service.
The incident occurred on Sunday morning around 8:15 a.m. in the area of Dundas and Adelaide streets. Police say the victim was walking when he was approached by Daniel Robert Smith, who was known to him. After a brief conversation, Smith allegedly proceeded to stab the victim.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and located the injured man. Paramedic services transported him to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The swift response meant the victim received medical attention within minutes of the attack.
Video surveillance from the area proved crucial in the investigation. Police were able to obtain footage that helped them identify the suspect. Within just 30 minutes of the initial incident, at approximately 8:45 a.m., officers located and arrested Smith.
The case was subsequently reassigned to members of the Patrol Operations Investigative Section, who continued the investigation. Following their work, Smith has been charged with one count of aggravated assault.
The downtown intersection of Dundas and Adelaide is a busy area that sees significant foot traffic throughout the day. The early morning timing of the incident meant fewer witnesses were likely present, making the video surveillance particularly valuable for investigators.
Smith appeared in London court today to face the charge. The quick turnaround from incident to court appearance demonstrates the efficiency of the investigation process when clear evidence is available.
Police are continuing to seek information from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has additional details about what occurred. The fact that the two men knew each other suggests this was not a random attack, though police have not released details about the nature of their relationship or what may have prompted the altercation.
The London Police Service is asking anyone with information related to this incident to contact them at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Information can also be submitted online anonymously to London Middlesex Crime Stoppers.
This incident adds to ongoing concerns about safety in London’s downtown core, though police have not indicated whether this was connected to any broader pattern of violence in the area. The successful identification and arrest of the suspect within hours of the incident demonstrates the effectiveness of surveillance technology and rapid police response in downtown London.