Police looking to identify suspect in bear spray incident

A screenshot shows a suspect in an alleged bear spray incident at Curtis Gordon Hotel in Winnipeg. Uploaded July 5, 2026. (Handout: Winnipeg Police Service)

Winnipeg police are asking the public’s help to locate a suspect in an alleged bear spray incident, who may also have a firearm.

Just before midnight on Sunday, police were called to the Curtis Gordon Hotel at 1011 Henderson Hwy, for a gun call.

Multiple units, including a tactical support team and drone unit, were sent to the location and learned that a man allegedly randomly sprayed bear spray inside the hotel, affecting several people.

Police say witnesses saw him carrying a firearm and a video showing the man walking across the parking lot allegedly armed with a firearm was obtained.

Officers searched the area and weren’t able to find the suspect, but found a CO2-powered gun that matched the look of the weapon in the video.

However, police say they cannot confirm if the recovered gun is the same gun in the video and until proven otherwise, they will treat the incident as a real firearm-related incident.

Police say the suspect is a tall, thin man with a lighter complexion.

He was wearing a grey sweater, beige pants, a black baseball cap with white letters, and carrying a black backpack. Police say the firearm was described as a small rifle/submachine gun style.

Police are asking the public not to approach this suspect, as he may be armed with a firearm. Instead, the force is asking the public to call 911 immediately if spotted.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the major crimes unit at 204-986-6219. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Winnipeg Crime Stoppers at 204-786-8477 or online.