Ottawa, Ontario – A tragic incident has shaken the residents of Ottawa as a family of newcomers from Sri Lanka was found dead in their home in a suburb of the city. The Ottawa Police Service responded to the scene late at night after receiving multiple 911 calls. A man was discovered outside the house, seeking help, and was taken to the hospital in serious condition.
Inside the home, the bodies of his wife, four children, and an acquaintance were found. The victims have been identified as Darshani Banbaranayake Hama Walwwe Darshani Dilanthika Ekanyake, 35, Inuka Wickramasinghe, 7, Ashwini Wickramasinghe, 4, Rinyana Wickramasinghe, 2, Kelly Wickramasinghe, 2 months old, and Amarakoonmubiayansela Ge Gamini Amarakoon, 40. Sri Lanka’s High Commission is working with family members in Colombo to provide support during this difficult time.
A suspect, Febrio De-Zoysa, 19, has been charged with six counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder. Investigators revealed that the suspect was a student and an acquaintance of the family, residing in the same home where the tragic incident occurred. The police confirmed that an edged weapon was used in the mass killing.
Chief Eric Stubbs condemned the violence, calling it a “senseless act” that targeted innocent individuals. The local community is in shock, with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe describing the news as devastating. Premier Doug Ford and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also expressed their condolences to the victims’ families and the Ottawa community.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Ottawa Catholic District School Board is offering support to those in need. Ottawa Public Health has provided resources for anyone seeking assistance during this challenging time. Authorities urge anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Ottawa Police Service Homicide Unit or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
The heartbreaking incident has deeply affected the community, prompting an outpouring of support and compassion for the victims and their loved ones. As the investigation unfolds, the city of Ottawa mourns the loss of innocent lives and stands in solidarity with those impacted by this tragedy.