OTTAWA, Ontario – The tragedy that befell the quiet suburb of Ottawa has left residents reeling as authorities work tirelessly to unravel the shocking events that unfolded on March 6. Ottawa police have identified six individuals, including an infant, who lost their lives in a devastating act of violence that has shaken the community to its core.
Upon responding to multiple 911 calls, the Ottawa Police Service arrived at a residence on Berrigan Drive late in the evening, discovering a man outside the house in distress. The man, now in serious but stable condition, was urgently transported to the hospital for treatment. Tragically, inside the home, the lifeless bodies of his wife, four children, and an acquaintance were found, marking a grim scene for investigators to navigate.
The victims, identified as a family of newcomers from Sri Lanka, have been named as Darshani Banbaranayake Hama Walwwe Darshani Dilanthika Ekanyake, Inuka Wickramasinghe, Ashwini Wickramasinghe, Rinyana Wickramasinghe, Kelly Wickramasinghe, and Amarakoonmubiayansela Ge Gamini Amarakoon. Sri Lanka’s High Commission is in contact with relatives in the capital, Colombo, offering support and assistance during this difficult time.
Amid the tragedy, the suspect, Febrio De-Zoysa, a 19-year-old student, faces charges of six counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder. Authorities have revealed that an edged weapon was utilized in the commission of the horrific crime, describing it as a senseless act of violence against innocent individuals.
As the investigation unfolds, Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe expressed his devastation over the incident, emphasizing the rarity of such events in the typically safe city. With condolences pouring in from Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the community is urged to come together in support of the affected families and friends during this time of mourning.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Ottawa Catholic District School Board has extended its support to those in need, offering assistance to students and staff coping with the aftermath. As the city grapples with the shock and horror of the mass killing, Ottawa Public Health has shared resources for individuals seeking support in light of the traumatic events.
Authorities implore anyone with information regarding the tragedy to contact the Ottawa Police Service Homicide Unit or submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers, as the community seeks justice and closure in the face of unfathomable loss.