Weapons Investigation 22-108830

WEAPONS INVESTIGATION

Two men arrested and charged

LONDON, ON (November 13, 2022) – Two London men are facing charges in relation to a weapons investigation.

On Saturday, November 12, 2022, at approximately 10:20 p.m., a man was travelling southbound in a locally owned tow truck on Adelaide Street South approaching Osgoode Drive, when he was followed by a rival company's tow truck. After passing Osgoode Drive, an occupant of the rival tow truck discharged six rounds from a handgun at the man. Five rounds struck the man's tailgate and one round went through his rear windshield. The suspect tow truck then fled the area, and was last seen travelling southbound on Dearness Drive. Police were contacted shortly afterward.

A description of the suspect tow truck was obtained by officers and evidence that a firearm had been discharged was recovered in the area.

With the assistance of Halton Regional Police, officers were able to track the suspect tow truck into Oakville, Ontario where two men were arrested without incident.

As a result of the investigation, Ali Banga, 25, and Blake St Denis, 21, both of London, have been jointly charged with occupy motor vehicle with firearm, reckless discharge of a firearm with intent to injure and possession of a restricted or prohibited firearm knowingly not holding a licence.

Banga was solely charged with breach of probation, and two counts of possession of a firearm or ammunition contrary to a prohibition order.

St Denis was solely charged with failing to comply with a release order, and failing to stop for police.

There were no reported injuries.

Both of the accused are scheduled to appear in London court today in relation to the charges.

The London Police Service wishes to thank members of Halton Regional Police Service for their assistance with this investigation.

Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to call the London Police Service at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Information can also be sent in online anonymously to London Elgin Middlesex Crime Stoppers. 

For media inquiries, contact: 

Cst. Tyler Marve
Relief Media Relations Officer
C. 519-854-8576
Email. Media Officer

22-108830