In a devastating incident that has shocked the Ottawa community, six individuals, including a mother and her four children, were tragically killed in Barrhaven, a suburb of the city. The victims, identified as a Sri Lankan newcomer family, were brutally attacked late Wednesday night, with a 40-year-old acquaintance also among the deceased.
Febrio De-Zoysa, a 19-year-old Sri Lankan national and acquaintance of the family, has been charged with six counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder. De-Zoysa was living in the same home as the victims and was arrested at the scene.
Ottawa Police Chief Eric Stubbs described the incident as “a senseless act of violence perpetrated on purely innocent people,” offering condolences to the loved ones of the victims. The tragedy marks the worst mass killing in recent history for the city.
While the motive behind the killings remains unclear, authorities have confirmed the use of a “knife-like” edged weapon in the attack. The community has been urged to seek support in coping with the traumatic event.
Leaders including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe have expressed shock and horror at the violence, emphasizing the need for support and solidarity within the community. Local officials and representatives have extended their condolences to the grieving families and emphasized the need for unity and support during this difficult time.