Two people shot over aluminium can dispute in Fort Erie

From silence to sirens, a quiet residential street in Crystal Beach was transformed by gunfire before sunrise on Monday.

Police say two people were shot after a dispute unravelled between two aluminum can collectors in Fort Erie.

Initially, authorities were called out to a parking lot at Derby Road and Rebstock Road.

When they arrived, they found a man and woman who had just been shot.

Both victims, who are in their 40s and residents of Fort Erie, were treated by paramedics on scene before being transported to hospital. 

Their condition was last described by emergency services as serious.

According to investigators, the gunman fled the scene in a vehicle described at the time as possibly a tan or silver minivan.

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It was recovered a few hours later and the alleged gunman was arrested.

An investigation into what happened determined that the two victims were collecting aluminium recycling from residential driveway bins, the man on foot and the woman in tow, driving a car. 

The man and the suspect, who is also believed to be a recycling collector, began arguing.

Police say the suspect hit the man with a wooden bat and then drew a 25-calibre pistol and fired multiple shots at the man striking him. The suspect then fired at the woman, hitting her and the car multiple times.

Authorities say they have arrested and charged William Symes, 78, with the following offences:

• Attempt Murder (x2)
• Discharge Firearm with Intent to Wound or Endanger Life (x2)
• Use Firearm During Commission of an Offence (x2)
• Careless Use of a Firearm
• Pointing a Firearm (x2)
• Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Weapon
• Possession of a Restricted or Prohibited Firearm Knowingly not Holding a Licence.
• Unauthorized Use of a Firearm in a Motor Vehicle
• Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
• Assault with a Weapon
• Aggravated Assault (x2)

Anyone with information about this shooting is asked to contact investigators by calling 905-688-4111.

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