Calgary Stampede stabbing leads to heightened security

One man is in critical condition after astabbing at the Stampede, resulting in heightened security around the grounds.

Police were calledaround 12:30 Thursdaymorning to assist EMSalready on the grounds treating someone for stab wounds.

Three people were injuredone who remains in life-threatening conditionand the other two with minor injuries.

Police say it appears a fight brokeout somewhere around the midway.Three people were taken into custody for questioning after a foot chase off the Stampede grounds.

The incident means that there will likelybe increased security,said Stampedespokesperson Jennifer Booth.

"We have a number of closed-circuit cameras, as well as we have bag checks that go into the park," said Booth. "We work very closely with the Calgary police.Security may be heightened, but we are always working towards having a safe park for all of our guests to enjoy."

She says these types of situations are rare.

"We just want to re-assure people that Calgary Stampede is a safe place to come to. We have all the safety measures in place."

Witnesses sought

Police say there were multiple witnesses and they are still doing interviews todetermine what happened.

"We know that there was video taken just after the incident occurred and we're looking for individuals to come forward and speak to our investigators," saidStaff Sgt.Robin Van Gastel.

Anyone with information can call 403-266-1234 or Calgary Crime Stoppers.

MikeMorter, who owns Wrap Daddy'sfood truck, saw the commotion but not the stabbing.

"I was quite surprised, 'cause you don't normally think that something like that, at that level, would happen here on the grounds given that there is a lot of security and police presence," he said.

A section of the west side of the midway was closed while police conducted their investigation, but has since reopened.