Mounties bear-sprayed while chasing axe-throwing suspect in Nanaimo, B.C.

An RCMP epaulette is seen in Edmonton, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

A 40-year-old man is facing multiple charges, including two counts of assaulting a police officer with a weapon, after Mounties say two officers were attacked with bear spray in Nanaimo, B.C.

A statement from the Nanaimo RCMP detachment says the incident occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m. on March 15, when police were responding to a report that a man had thrown an axe at a passing truck.

When officers arrived at the scene on Aulds Road near Metral Drive, they recognized the man and knew he was wanted on outstanding warrants, the statement says.

“As the officers approached, the suspect took off on foot and a short chase ensued,” police said. “During the chase, the suspect allegedly discharged bear spray at the officers.”

The officers managed to arrest the man and take him into custody “without further incident,” police said.

Paramedics responded to the scene and treated both officers for the effects of the bear spray, according to the statement.

Court records show Kym Arkell of Nanaimo has been charged with two counts of assaulting a police officer with a weapon, one count of possessing a weapon for a dangerous purpose, one count of resisting a police officer and two counts of breaching probation.

He is currently in custody awaiting his next court appearance on these charges and others – including arson, mischief and uttering threats – scheduled for April 1.