Windsor police have made one arrest and are actively seeking a second suspect following a violent attack on a downtown store clerk that stemmed from an argument over a merchandise return. The incident, which occurred in mid-March, left the employee with non-life-threatening injuries after the suspects allegedly assaulted them during a confrontation.
Details of the Downtown Store Assault
On March 14, 2026, shortly after 3 p.m., officers responded to a report of an assault at a store located in the 500 block of Ouellette Avenue in Windsor. According to police, a woman had initially made a purchase at the store and left, but she returned a short time later accompanied by a man, claiming she had received the incorrect product. This led to a verbal altercation between the suspects and an employee, escalating quickly into physical violence.
Escalation and Arrest of Male Suspect
During the altercation, police stated that the man began throwing and damaging items within the store. He and the woman then allegedly assaulted the employee, with the man using an item from the store to strike the victim multiple times. The employee sustained injuries that were not life-threatening, as confirmed by authorities.
Investigators announced on April 1 that they had identified the 37-year-old male suspect and issued an arrest warrant for him. Shortly after 1 p.m. on Thursday, members of the Problem-Oriented Policing (POP) Unit located the suspect near Wyandotte Street East and Louise Avenue. He has been charged with assault with a weapon, assault, and mischief under $5,000.
Ongoing Search for Female Suspect
While the male suspect is now in custody, Windsor police are still searching for the unidentified woman involved in the attack. She is described as Black, approximately 30 to 45 years old, standing five feet four inches tall with a medium build and black hair. At the time of the assault, she was wearing a grey sweater, a beige toque, blue jeans, and black-and-white running shoes.
Authorities have urged anyone with information about the case to come forward. Tips can be provided by contacting the Major Crimes Unit at 519-255-6700, extension 4830, or anonymously through Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at catchcrooks.com.
Community Impact and Police Response
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about retail safety and violence in downtown Windsor. The swift action by the POP Unit in apprehending the male suspect demonstrates the police department's commitment to addressing such crimes, but the search for the female suspect remains a priority to ensure full accountability.
The attack serves as a reminder of the risks faced by retail workers during customer disputes, particularly over issues like returns and exchanges. Windsor police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the assault and are working to identify and locate the remaining suspect to bring closure to this case.
