Mounties in Kamloops, B.C., say the bishop who was brutally attacked on Friday night is now in stable but serious condition and they are recommending charges against their in-custody suspect.
David Monroe, 69, was attacked on Friday after answering the door of the Sacred Heart Cathedral's rectory just before 10 p.m.
Police say a man forcefully entered the rectory and beat Monroe on the head with an unidentified object before fleeing the scene, leaving a trail of blood behind him.
The motivation for the attack remains unknown. "We have no idea why this attack occurred," Sgt. Scott Wilson said. "There is some indication there may be a mental illness."
Authorities say Monroe suffered severe trauma to the face and head, as well as bruises and cuts to other parts of his body.
A priest, the only other person inside the rectory at the time of the assault, slipped and fell down a flight of stairs while rushing to help. He was taken to hospital with a dislocated shoulder and has since been released.
Monroe remains in serious condition. Monsignor Jerry Desmond told CTV News the bishop could not recognize him at the hospital.
"He suffered a horrible beating," Desmond said. "He's in hospital and he's going to be there for some time."
Police believe the attack is related to an incident at the Royal Inlands Hospital earlier that night. Hospital staff reported an agitated man had caused a disturbance, breaking at least one window before leaving the premises.
A 30-year-old man was found in a shed at a local trailer park. He was arrested and remains in custody. On Sunday, Cpl. Dan Moskaluk confirmed that police are recommending charges of aggravated assault.
Anyone with information on the attack is asked to contact the Kamloops RCMP Serious Crime Unit at 250-828-3000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
