Nova Scotia man accused of stabbing officer, police dog still at large

BRIDGEWATER, N.S. — A Nova Scotia fugitive accused of stabbing a police sergeant, assaulting a woman and injuring a police dog remains at large.

RCMP spokeswoman Cpl. Jennifer Clarke said today there has been no trace of Tobias Charles Doucette since he was last seen Tuesday in Conquerall Bank, N.S.

Clarke says police continue to evaluate tips from the public.

She says investigators feel they have done all they can in the Conquerall Bank area and will direct search resources based on the strength of tips received on Doucette’s potential whereabouts.

Police are urging people to continue reporting any sightings of Doucette.

A charge of attempted murder was filed against the Cape Breton man after he allegedly struck an officer in the neck with an edged weapon when police responded to a domestic violence call Monday night at a hotel in Bridgewater, N.S.

Doucette was briefly spotted by an RCMP dog and handler Tuesday, but police say he escaped into nearby woods after allegedly stabbing the dog with a stick.

“We are trying to substantiate everything (information) that comes in,” said Clarke. “That’s what’s going to make the difference with this investigation. Mr. Doucette could be hurt or could be having some issue, we don’t know — someone could be helping him.”

Clarke said it’s hoped Doucette reaches out to a family member, community member, or even police for help. “We want to resolve this peacefully and soon,” she said.

Bridgewater police Sgt. Matthew Bennett, who was injured in Monday’s incident, is recovering following surgery.

The woman described as the suspect’s common-law partner was treated for minor injuries sustained in the same incident.

The injured police dog was also reported to be in stable condition.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 24, 2020.

The Canadian Press