Halifax ER attack: Why one advocate says the unhoused crisis may have played a role – Halifax [Video]

As court proceedings continue for the man charged with attacking three Halifax Infirmary staff members last week, housing advocates say the case speaks to a broader issue in the community.

Some say more shelter options may prevent other violent attacks.

Nicholas Robert Coulombe, 32, opted not to appear in person in court Tuesday. His lawyer appeared on his behalf and informed the judge Coulombe will not be seeking bail at this time.

The case is scheduled to be back in court on Feb. 27.

He is charged with attempted murder and three counts of aggravated assault with a weapon, after allegedly attacking three people at the QEII emergency room last Wednesday.

According to a police information form filed with the provincial court, the weapon used in three of the alleged confrontations was a knife.

Coulombe is a former resident of the Grand Parade tent encampment in downtown Halifax, and according to advocates had been staying at …