Two teens in custody after machete attack in Elmwood

A man in his 20s needed "significant medical treatment" in hospital after a machete attack by teens who didn't know him, Winnipeg police said.

Police were called to Keenleyside Street around 7:45 p.m. Dec. 27 for the report of an assault with a weapon, police said in a news release Sunday.

At the scene officers found a man in his 20s with serious upper body injuries outside of a home.

Police believe the victim was leaving the residence where he was socializing, when some males from an upstair suite, who were unknown to him, chased the 20-year-old outside. Officers said he was then assaulted with bear spray and a machete.

The man received emergency medical care, which included the application of two tourniquets, before being taken to hospital in unstable condition.

Winnipeg police Const. Claude Chancy said the man was stabilized afer receiving "significant medical treatment." 

With information provided by witnesses and the canine unit, officers found a track that led police to three males on Watt Street that matched the suspects' description, Chancy said.

After a brief foot pursuit two of the suspects were arrested. 

A 14-year-old boy from Winnipeg faces charges of aggravated assault and assault with a weapon in connection with the incident. 

A 16-year-old boy from Winnipeg is also facing charges of aggravated assault, two counts of possession of a weapon and five counts of failing to comply with a sentence in connection with the incident. 

"It's always concerning to hear of youth involved in very serious attacks," Chancy said. "[In] this one in particular the victim will be left with some life-altering consequences as a result of his injuries." 

"It's something that needs to be addressed in not only the cooperation of police, but community resources and government as well."

Chancy said the third suspect, also believed to be a youth, remains outstanding and no description is available at this time.

The major crimes unit continues to investigate and police are asking anyone with information about the incident to call 204-986-6219, or contact Crime Stoppers at 204-786-8477 or leave a tip through their website.