Edmonton police are asking for the public’s help in tracking down a suspect believed to have been involved in a violent overnight assault that left a dog seriously injured when she protected her owner.
Police said officers responded to a reported break and enter and stabbing at a home near 117 Avenue and 80 Street, at about 6:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Officers discovered four males had allegedly forced their way into the home of a 30-year-old woman they knew, after an argument between the woman and one of the males escalated into violence.
Investigators found the woman’s dog jumped into the fray to protect the woman, and took the brunt of the attack.
Police said the 4-year-old female black pit bull named Mercey suffered life-threatening knife injuries.
After the four suspects fled, the dog was rushed to an emergency veterinary clinic where it was determined the dog required surgery to save her life, or she would have to be put down.
Once the story reached officers, EPS said members chipped in to ensure the dog could undergo surgery.
On Wednesday, Mercey remained at the vet clinic under observation following her surgery.
Police tracked down three of the four suspects: Clinton Neil Wabasca, 32, Charlie Jean Chalifoux, 18 and a 15-year-old boy were taken into custody.
All three are facing charges of break and enter to commit assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public and cruelty to an animal.
The fourth suspect has been identified as Dylan Ian Machiskinic, 19, he’s described as:
- Aboriginal
- 170 cm (5’7”)
- 107 kg (236 lbs)
- Black hair
- Brown eyes
- Scar on his forehead
Police said Machiskinic is considered violent, and should not be approached.
Anyone with information on the suspect’s whereabouts is asked to call the Edmonton Police Service non-emergency line at 780-423-4567 or #377 on a mobile phone.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
With files from Bill Fortier
