OTTAWA – The Ottawa police is currently investigating two hate-motivated incidents in the past week.

“The first incident occurred on Oct. 8 at approximately 8 p.m. on the 3400 block of Strandherd Dr.,” the Ottawa Police Service released in a statement today (Oct. 13). “The complainant was eating in a restaurant when he noticed a white Chevrolet Equinox pulling up next to his vehicle, which was parked in front of the business.”

The driver of the Equinox, described as a 45 to 60-year-old Caucasian man, began spitting all over the complainant’s vehicle,” the OPS said. When confronted by the complainant, the man drove off.”

The second incident occurred on Oct. 9 at approximately 2:45 p.m. on the 1-100 block of Rideau Street. 

“The complainant was entering a store when a man told him ‘being forced to wear a mask makes me want to kill Asians,’” the police said. “The suspect is described as a Caucasian man in his 40s, 5’10” (178 cm), thin build, brown hair that spoke English with no accent.”

The Ottawa police is aware of similar incidents in other jurisdictions.

“In partnership with the community, the OPS takes these incidents very seriously and they will be fully investigated,” the Ottawa police said. “We encourage anyone who has experienced or witnessed similar hateful behaviour to report these incidents to police.”

Investigators are looking to speak with anyone who may have witnessed these incidents or who has information about the vehicle and occupants. Anyone with information is asked to call the Detective Ali Toghrol of the OPS Hate Crime Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 5015. Anonymous tips can be submitted by Calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.