The mayor of Owen Sound has published a statement after a violent incident in the city’s downtown that has left a business owner fighting for his life in a London hospital.
On Thursday, August 17th, shortly after 9 p.m., three people police describe as, “Caucasian males” attended the Curry House on 2nd Avenue East where a dispute ensued and the owner, 44 year old Sharif Rahman was seriously assaulted.
He was transported to a London hospital with critical injuries.
Mayor Ian Boddy says, “I am heartbroken and outraged by this senseless act of violence toward Sharif Rahman and one of his employees this past week.”
Police have appealed to the community for any information or video footage they might have.
In an interview with Bayshore Broadcasting News, Boddy says, “People are horrified by it. Any time that there is violence in the community we’re horrified.”
His statement says, “We believe that every member of our community is entitled to live freely, safely, and to prosper, without fear of violence.”
He adds, “Sharif is an outstanding member of our community, serving on City and County Committees, and working as a successful small business owner and restaurateur in the River District.”
His statement continues, “I want all residents to know that the City takes this very seriously and that Owen Sound Police Services continue to act with urgency to find the individuals responsible. An attack like this on one of our business community members is an attack on the entirety of the community. We all need to stand up against this violence. Please contact the Owen Sound Police Services if you have information on this tragic event that will help the investigation.”
Boddy says, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sharif and Sharif’s wife and children. For those wanting to help Sharif and his family, a GoFundMe page has been set up to assist the family.”
That GoFundMe page had set a goal of $25,000. As of 1 p.m. Monday, $55,000 had been donated by community members and local businesses in Grey and Bruce Counties.
“I think that’s a statement about the true character of our community,” says Boddy.
Page organizer Mark Barbosa says in the GoFundMe post, the money will go towards covering medical bills and any related treatments, providing support for The Curry House to ensure its continuity in Sharif’s absence and assisting Sharif’s family with daily necessities and unforeseen expenses.
Mayor Ian Boddy has released a statement on the recent serious assault in Owen Sound. For more information, please visit https://t.co/6ecoQtfPq7. Image credit: Mark & Tim Real Estate Team. pic.twitter.com/wijBOAD3wf
— City of Owen Sound (@CityOwenSound) August 21, 2023