Lesbian couple attacked in Halifax: Police probe homophobic assault
The incident occurred in late June in the city of Halifax, Canada. A group of young men attacked a lesbian couple. According to the victims, the attackers were of Middle Eastern origin, probably from Syria. A video of the incident has surfaced online.
The incident, reported by "The Sun," occurred on 22 June in Halifax, Canada at Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Emma MacLean and her girlfriend Tori Hogan celebrated Emma's birthday in the city centre. At some point, a group of men allegedly made "rude remarks" about the women's sexual orientation.
A verbal confrontation ensued, after which the group of men reportedly attacked the women. In a Facebook post, Emma describes the attackers as "men from the Middle East, probably from Syria," aged 18 to 25.
A specific individual (...) initially directed a demeaning sexual remark at me. My partner, Tori, and this man got into a verbal altercation, during which this individual hurled several disgusting slurs, some of a homophobic nature. Then 7-10 men attacked me and my partner, landing several punches and kicks to our faces, ribs, etc. - recounts the woman.
She adds, "As a result of this attack, I have a broken nose, a chipped tooth, several bruises, and bumps on my head and face."
Homophobic attack in Canada. A video was posted online
The assaulted women posted photos and a video of the incident online, asking for help in identifying the men.
The video initially shows two people lying on the pavement. When one of the women gets up, several men rush at her. A scuffle ensues.
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In an interview with local media, Emma said she witnessed her partner Tori being pushed down some stairs. When she was lying on her back, the men started beating and kicking her.
A bystander alerted the patrolling police to the incident, but officers only arrived at the scene afterwards. One of the men involved reportedly told the police that the women were the aggressors.
Police have confirmed that the 22 June incident is under investigation. So far, no charges have been filed.
