Ottawa, Ontario – Police in Ottawa are currently investigating a suspected multiple homicide that occurred at a residence in the southern part of the Canadian capital. The tragic incident resulted in the deaths of two adults and four children, with a seventh person sustaining serious injuries but is expected to survive.
The identities of the victims have not been officially confirmed by Canadian authorities, but the Sri Lanka High Commission in Ottawa has revealed that the family involved were Sri Lankan nationals. The father survived the attack, while his wife and children tragically lost their lives. The High Commission is currently in contact with relatives in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka.
The authorities in Ottawa were alerted to the situation after receiving a call about the incident on Wednesday night. Following swift action, a suspect was apprehended, and the police have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to safety in the area. Ottawa Police Chief Eric Stubbs has stated that the deaths are not believed to be a result of domestic or intimate partner violence, though the exact relationship between the suspect and the victims is still being determined.
Neighbors of the family involved have been left in shock by the tragic events. Don Perera, a neighbor who met the family at a Halloween party, recalls the father being originally from Sri Lanka. Another neighbor, Shanti Ramesh, witnessed a commotion at the residence and saw a man being taken into custody by the police.
The community in Barrhaven, where the incident took place, has been deeply affected by the news. Mayor Mark Sutcliffe expressed his distress over the multiple homicide, describing it as one of the most shocking acts of violence in the city’s history. As investigators continue to gather information, a media update is expected later in the day to provide further details on the tragic incident.