On December 12, 2025, at approximately 12:30 AM, members of the Medicine Hat Police Patrol Section responded to a residence in the 2000 block of Southview Drive SE following reports of multiple individuals being assaulted with bear spray.

The investigation determined that a male suspect discharged a significant amount of Oleoresin Capsicum (bear spray) in the building's front entryway, resulting in several individuals being affected.  The suspect fled the scene immediately after the incident.

On December 14, 2025, Nathan Canfield, a 40-year-old resident of Medicine Hat, was arrested in connection with this incident. Mr. Canfield has been charged with the following offenses:

•             Assault

•             Assault with a weapon (three counts)

•             Possession of a weapon dangerous to the public

•             Uttering threats

•             Public mischief (two counts)

No serious injuries were reported, and all affected parties received medical attention at the scene. Mr. Canfield was remanded into custody following a judicial interim release hearing and is scheduled to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice on December 22, 2025.

Media Contact:

S/Sgt. Harely Kesler
Patrol Section
Medicine Hat Police Service
Ph: 403-529-8461