Winnipeg police released the name of a man charged in connection with explosive devices sent to three Winnipeg addresses, including one that detonated and seriously injured a woman.
Guido Amsel has been charged with two counts of attempted murder, one count of aggravated assault, and multiple charges related to the possession of explosives.
Police believe the 49-year-old man was targeting his ex-wife, who he has been battling in court.
They also believe the suspect is targeting lawyers who have represented his ex-wife.
Police believe the suspect sent packages containing explosives through Canada Post on June 29th and 30th. They believe the packages were delivered on July 2nd and 3rd.
Police are concerned that the suspect may have sent other packages that have not been discovered, and are urging lawyers to be vigilant and watch for packages with distinctive hand-writing.
On Sunday, police searched a residence on Pandora Avenue and a business on Springfield Road, both associated with Amsel.
On Friday, an explosion on River Avenue at Petersen King law firm seriously injured lawyer Maria Mitousis.
Police said the family lawyer has been stabilized after receiving extensive upper body injuries.
Supt. Danny Smyth said investigators were able to speak with Mitousis Saturday. Smyth said it's expected her recovery will take considerable time.
Police along with the bomb squad were dispatched to a business in the 500 block of Washington Avenue Saturday afternoon around 2 p.m. after receiving a call from the business’ employees regarding a suspicious package that was allegedly sent to them.
Police confirmed at 10:40 p.m. Saturday, the bomb robot detonated a device containing an unknown material.
Police said no one was injured in the process, but that there was extensive damage to the business.
Sunday night, police discovered another explosive device at a law firm on 280 Stradbrook Street.
A loud blast could be heard from inside Orle, Barkman, and Davidson law firm, as the police bomb squad and bomb robot moved in and out of the building.
Police believe the suspect targeted individuals on Stradbrook Street, as well as River Avenue and Washington Avenue.
On Monday morning, police and Mayor Brian Bowman held a press conference.
Bowman thanked first responders and said their actions "likely saved lives on the weekend."
Officers expressed support for Mitousis, along with thanking the public for its help.
