Woman Hospitalized After Broken‑Bottle Attack in Ottawa’s ByWard Market

It was a typical bustling Tuesday night in Ottawa’s ByWard Market when the unexpected happened. A woman, who has asked to remain unnamed, was walking past a cluster of outdoor cafés when a bottle — shattered in two — was hurled in her direction.

According to witnesses, the piece of glass struck her on the head and arm, causing a deep cut that bled heavily. “I saw it happen in slow motion,” one onlooker told police, “the bottle just flew, and then everything went quiet as people rushed to help.”

Paramedics arrived within minutes and, after applying pressure to the wound, escorted the victim to an Ottawa hospital for stitches and observation. Doctors say she’s in stable condition, though they could not disclose the exact extent of her injuries due to privacy rules.

Ottawa Police Service launched an investigation straightaway. Detectives scoured the area’s surveillance footage and, with the help of market vendors, identified a male suspect seen fleeing the scene. He was apprehended later that night near the Rideau Canal and is now being held on assault charges.

Police spokesperson Const. Marilyn Dufresne said, “We take assaults in public spaces very seriously. Our officers acted quickly, and thanks to community cooperation we were able to locate the individual responsible.” She added that the suspect, whose name has not been released, will appear before a court next week.

Market vendors expressed shock and disappointment. “We try to keep this place safe for families and tourists,” said Marco Lombardi, who runs a coffee stall near the incident. “It’s unsettling when something like this happens, but we’re grateful the police acted fast.”

The ByWard Market, a historic hub known for its vibrant nightlife and street performers, has seen a rise in security patrols over the past year. City officials say they are reviewing lighting and camera placement to deter future incidents.

Meanwhile, the victim’s family posted a heartfelt thank‑you on social media, praising the rapid response of the paramedics and the kindness of strangers who offered assistance. “I’m scared but also incredibly grateful,” the post read. “Thank you, Ottawa, for looking after one of your own.”

Anyone with further information about the assault is urged to contact the Ottawa Police Service by calling 613‑236‑1222.