Noisemaker ban in the works after assault at B.C. junior hockey game leaves man seriously injured

Officials in B.C.’s West Kootenay region are taking action to ban noisemakers following a disturbing incident at a junior hockey game that left a Fruitvale man with serious injuries. The assault, which occurred at Fruitvale’s Beaver Valley Arena during a game between the Beaver Valley Nitehawks and Grand Forks Border Bruins, stemmed from a dispute over the use of an air horn.

According to the RCMP, the victim was violently thrown to the ground and sustained serious injuries as a result of the altercation. He was rushed to the hospital for immediate medical attention and remains in serious condition. The incident has sparked calls for a ban on all noisemakers at hockey games in the West Kootenay region.

Ali Grieve, a director with the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary and chair of Beaver Valley Recreation, revealed that the victim informed her that the assailant was using a makeshift air horn despite being asked multiple times to stop. The person of interest fled the scene following the assault.

Grieve shared that the victim, a dedicated Nitehawks fan, suffered multiple injuries and required surgery on both legs. His life has been drastically impacted by the incident, as he is self-employed and has been unable to work while recovering. The Beaver Valley recreation committee is taking steps to implement a policy banning noisemakers such as air horns, bells, clackers, and drums from the arena to ensure the safety of all fans and reduce conflicts in the stands.

The RCMP have released an image of a potential suspect, described as a 50-year-old Caucasian man from Grand Forks with a heavy build, grey hair, and a moustache. He was last seen wearing a grey cap, black jacket, and blue jeans. The police also mentioned a possible accomplice, a Caucasian woman around 50 years old with long brown hair and glasses.

Grieve is urging the individual responsible for the assault to come forward and take responsibility for their actions. The victim and his family are facing long-lasting consequences as a result of the incident, and it is crucial for justice to be served. The community is rallying behind the victim and working towards creating a safer environment for all hockey fans in the region.