Ottawa police are appealing to drivers who may have dashcam footage to come forward as they work to identify a suspect in a reported hate-motivated assault on Woodridge Crescent. The incident occurred on June 20, 2026, when a woman had her hijab pulled in what authorities describe as a targeted attack.
Details of the Incident
The assault took place on Woodridge Crescent, a residential street in Ottawa. According to the Ottawa Police Service, the suspect approached the victim and pulled her hijab, an act investigators believe was motivated by hate. No further details about the victim or the exact time of the incident have been released.
Police Appeal for Dashcam Footage
In a statement, Ottawa police urged drivers who were in the area on June 20 to check their dashcams for any footage that might capture the suspect or his vehicle. “We are asking anyone with dashcam footage from Woodridge Crescent on June 20 to contact us,” said a police spokesperson. “Even small details could be crucial in identifying this individual.” The suspect is described as a man, but no further physical description has been provided.
Hate Crime Investigation
The incident is being investigated as a hate-motivated assault, which carries enhanced penalties under Canadian law. Police have not confirmed whether the victim sustained physical injuries, but the psychological impact of such attacks is often significant. Community leaders have condemned the act, calling for increased vigilance and reporting of hate crimes.
How to Assist
Anyone with information or dashcam footage is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service’s hate crime unit at 613-236-1222 ext. 4567. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
