Ottawa, Canada – Ottawa police are currently investigating a tragic incident that has shaken the city. The most severe mass killing in Ottawa’s history took place, leaving a mother, her four children, and a family acquaintance dead in their family home on Berrigan Drive in Barrhaven. The suspect, a 19-year-old international student residing with the family, is facing six charges of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder.
Sources close to the Ottawa police have revealed that the primary weapon used in the attack was a hunting knife, sparking questions about whether multiple knives were involved in the incident. The victims have been identified as Banbaranayake Gama Walwwe Darshani Dilanthika Ekanyake, her children Kelly, Ranaya, Ashwini, and Inuka, along with family acquaintance Gamini Amarakoon Amarakoon Mudiyanselage. The family had recently immigrated to Canada from Sri Lanka.
The surviving father, Dhanushka Wickramasinghe, is currently recuperating in the hospital. Wickramasinghe, a former Algonquin College student, had brought his family to Canada after obtaining his work permit. Authorities are trying to piece together the events of that fateful night, as Ottawa Police Chief Eric Stubbs confirms ongoing investigations into the incident.
As the community mourns the loss of the innocent lives, a candlelight vigil has been planned to honor the memory of the victims. A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to support the families affected by this tragedy. The suspect, Febrio De-Zoysa, a Sri Lankan national, has appeared in court and faces multiple charges in connection with the incident.
Monsignor Paul Baxter School, attended by two of the children, is providing grief counseling services to help students cope with the aftermath of the tragedy. The school community, along with the entire city, has come together to show support for the bereaved families during this difficult time.
The story continues to evolve as more details emerge, shedding light on the heartbreaking events that unfolded in the quiet neighborhood of Barrhaven. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities committed to uncovering the truth behind this senseless act of violence.