Woman Assaulted in Alleged Hate-Related Incident

Authorities are seeking a group of men who are reported to have directed homophobic slurs at a woman early Sunday, with one of them allegedly assaulting her physically.

The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. near the intersection of Norfolk and Macdonell streets in the downtown area, according to a police statement. A group of friends were seated on some steps when they were confronted by several men who started hurling homophobic insults at them.

The confrontation escalated into violence when one of the men struck a woman from Mississauga in the face, causing a laceration that needed several stitches.

Police are continuing their investigation into the incident and are attempting to identify the men involved.

Members of the public with any information regarding the assault are encouraged to contact Const. Mallory Woeller at 519-824-1212 ext. 7462 or email mwoeller@guelphpolice.ca. Information can also be submitted anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.csgw.tips.