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Hostages held at gunpoint on Wellington East: police

Man accused of pointing a long barrel shotgun at people in a residence to prevent them from leaving; 40-year-old charged with forcible confinement and pointing a firearm
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Officers seized a weapon after responding to a hostage situation on Wellington Street East in the early morning hours of July 17, 2023

A 40-year-old man is accused of holding hostages at gunpoint at a house on Wellington Street East.

Sault Police say someone phoned 911 early yesterday morning around 2:30 to report that multiple people were being held against their will.

“Upon arrival, officers called the accused outside,” says a news release issued today by the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service. “The accused came outside and was placed under arrest without incident. Further investigation revealed the accused had pointed a long barrel shotgun at people in the residence and prevented them from leaving.”

Along with forcible confinement, Donald Larente is charged with:

  • Point Firearm
  • Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
  • Unauthorized Possession of Firearm
  • Possession of Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized
  • Failure to Comply with Probation Order x2

He is being held in custody pending a bail hearing.

None of the allegations against Larente have been tested in court and he is considered innocent unless proven guilty.