The Portage la Prairie RCMP is hoping the public can assist in an investigation into a serious incident over the weekend. The RCMP was called at approximately eight o'clock Sunday morning, to a report of a man laying in a back lane between 7th Street NW and 8th Street NW, closest to 7th Avenue.

Upon arrival, police discovered the male in medical distress due to "numerous injuries about his body." The 39-year-old victim was taken to the hospital, where he remains. Portage la Prairie Constable Sean O'Keefe says they're putting out the call for tips, as information has been slow to come in.

"We're very slow to get cooperation from the public at this time, and that's why we're asking for anyone with knowledge of these incidents to come forward. In these instances, sometimes people are afraid of who might have done the crime, and coming forward might bring repercussions to them. That's why we also encourage them to make anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers, which guarantees anonymity, and can go a long way to helping us in our investigation."

O'Keefe says their last update from the hospital indicated the male was in critical, but stable condition. He says that can change at any moment, so they're taking this investigation very seriously.

Anyone with information on the incident can contact Portage la Prairie RCMP at 204-857-4445. Tips can me made through Crime Stoppers by calling at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online through the Crime Stoppers website.