London police are investigating what they call a hate-motivated assault.
They were called to the Lavish Nightclub on Dundas Street about 2:15 a.m. Saturday for a disturbance.
Posts on social media suggest an alarm at the LGBTQ club forced patrons onto the street. There was a separate party elsewhere in the building.
At least two posts claim there were anti-LGBTQ statements made.
“As a result of the disturbance two people were injured and an assault investigation is currently ongoing,” says Const. Kim Flett.
She says the injured were treated by EMS but not taken to hospital.
“At this time no charges have been laid as the investigation is still in the preliminary stages,” Flett says.
Londoner Kevin Evans, a well known activist and dee-jay within the LGBTQ community is friends with one of the alleged victims. He said he was shocked and saddened by what happened, and echoed some of the comments made on social media.
“It's really sad. I've been the victim of situations where names have been called at me. I have not had a physical altercation thankfully. but it does, does reinforce why pride is necessary, why education and community engagement is necessary.”
London Police Service media officer Const. Sandasha Bough told CTV News on Monday it will be up to the courts to decide whether a hate crimes have been committed.
“While this investigation does appear to be hate or bias motivated, right now when assault charges are laid what happens is when that individual goes to court through the sentencing process that's when it's determined if it falls into that particular category.”
