A Child Called 9-1-1 Last Night To Save Their Mother During Domestic Assault

Last night (May 21st), at approximately 11 p.m., police received a 9-1-1 call from a brave child regarding a domestic incident occurring at their Peterborough home.

Officers attended the residence and located the male accused, a 35 year old man, and the victim, a 29 year old woman. The woman was transported to PRHC and treated for her injuries and released. As a result of the investigation, the male was arrested and charged with domestic assault. Through the investigation it was revealed that an assault on the same victim had also occurred earlier in May. The male was subsequently charged with a second count of domestic assault.

"From all the reports that come across my desk, I would say that it is rare for a child to call 9-1-1 to report a domestic violence incident," says Lauren Gilchrist, Communications Coordinator with Peterborough Police Service.

"From what I see, it would be the primary victim that calls 9-1-1, or a neighbour or someone else in the area who hears/sees the incident," adds Gilchrist. "The impacts of domestic violence are far reaching. It is crucial that local families know where they can turn to for resources and help. We need to raise awareness about our community partners who are helping women and children experiencing domestic violence and the collaborative work we do." 

Kudos to this hero child for calling 9-1-1 to protect their mother, and themself.

[Related: Why Are You Walking?, Walk A Mile Peterborough]

Tip us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Follow us on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram, and Like us on Facebook.