A Carleton Place barber who was previously identified as the victim in a serious assault is now facing a charge following a continued Ontario Provincial Police investigation into the incident.
The Lanark County Detachment of the OPP announced this week that 39-year-old Kyle Blundell of Carleton Place has been charged with assault in connection with an altercation that occurred shortly before 1 a.m. on July 24 on Bridge Street near College Street.
Blundell, known locally as the Towne Barber of Carleton Place, was identified in earlier reporting as the victim of the incident.
At the time, police charged 48-year-old David Murray, who has no fixed address, with aggravated assault, assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, and failure to comply with probation.
OPP Sergeant Erin Cranton told lanarkleedstoday.ca that Blundell’s charges, “does not alter the original arrest or charges laid against [Murry].”
Murray was held in custody following a bail hearing.
According to comments posted on a GoFundMe campaign established to support Blundell during his recovery, he suffered three breaks to one arm as well as blunt-force injuries to his face and abdomen that required emergency surgery. The campaign stated that he would require ongoing medical treatment and dental reconstruction.
In announcing the new charge, OPP said officers continued investigating after receiving additional information about the events leading up to the altercation, including the review of video footage.
As a result of that investigation, Blundell has been charged with assault. He is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Carleton Place on September 14, 2026.
Police noted that Murray had also been connected with local resources and partner agencies on several occasions, but added that officers cannot compel individuals to accept services or comply with referrals.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Lanark County OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
