The Ottawa Police Service is seeking witnesses to a serious collision involving a cyclist in the 2000 block of Haig Drive that occurred at approximately 6:17 a.m., on March 26th. At this time, it is believed that the cyclist may have fallen off their bicycle before being struck by an oncoming vehicle. The cyclist was transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Investigators would like to speak with anyone who may not have spoken to officers on scene or who may have dash camera footage in the area around the time of the incident, and encourage anyone with information is asked to contact the OPS Collision Investigations Unit.

In a followup to a story from last week’s edition regarding the hit-and-run collision involving a school crossing guard, the Ottawa Police Service reported that a 19-year-old man was arrested in connection with this investigation. The Ottawa Police Service also expressed their condolences, stating “The Ottawa Police Service extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Peter Clark, who tragically lost his life while serving as a school crossing guard. Crossing guards play a vital role in protecting children and families, standing in all conditions to ensure students can travel to and from school safely. Mr. Clark’s commitment to that responsibility reflects a service to the community that deserves our utmost respect and gratitude. This is a heartbreaking loss, and our thoughts are with the school community and all those affected.” The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information will be shared when available.

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On February 27th, The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) charged a 34-year-old man with human trafficking-related offences. An investigation by the OPS Human Trafficking Unit began in November 2025, involving a female victim for offences between May 2022 and February 2026. 34-year-old Christopher EXUME of Ottawa has been charged with; Trafficking in persons, Procuring, Advertising another person for sexual services, Sexual assault and sexual interference. Christopher EXUME remains in custody, however investigators believe that there are other victims of human trafficking related to this investigation. Considering victims may not know the legal name of their offender, EXUME is alleged to have used the alias of ‘Z’  and ‘Zo.’ The OPS is also taking the extra step of publicly releasing a photo of the accused, available at the cited link. The Human Trafficking Unit will respect victims’ wishes whether to pursue criminal charges, and regardless, can offer resources to support survivors of human trafficking.

On February 23rd, at approximately 10:56 a.m.,  the Ottawa Police Service seized a firearm and multiple Schedule I drugs following proactive enforcement. Members of the Centretown Neighbourhood Resource Team were conducting proactive patrols in response to community concerns when they initiated a traffic stop on Booth and Rochester streets. The traffic stop led to the arrest of two individuals: an adult man and a youth. A loaded firearm and quantities of fentanyl, hydromorphone and oxycodone were seized, and the vehicle was towed. Both individuals were charged with various offences under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and the Criminal Code of Canada. The youth was additionally charged with two counts of possession of a prohibited firearm contrary to the Criminal Code. The investigation is continuing by the OPS Drug Unit. 

On March 2nd, The Ottawa Police Service laid charges in connection with a daytime armed robbery that occurred at a jewelry store in the Glebe on January 16, 2025. Following an investigation by the OPS Robbery Unit, 35-year-old Andrew Smyth has been charged with; Robbery with an Offensive Weapon, Possess Weapon with Purpose to Commit an Offence, Have Face Masked, Mischief exceeding $5000, Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence, and Fail to Comply with Order. Additionally, 34-year-old Mark George has been charged with; Robbery with an Offensive Weapon, Have Face Masked, Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence. The OPS thanks the public for its assistance with this investigation.

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On January 28th, 2026, The Ottawa Police Service arrested three individuals in relation to a stolen vehicle and police pursuit that occurred in the early morning hours. At approximately 2:00 a.m., officers responded to a report of a motor vehicle theft in progress in the 1400 block of Richmond Road. About 25 minutes later, the stolen vehicle was located near Dumaurier Avenue, where it fled from police at high speeds. The pursuit was terminated due to speed and road conditions. At approximately 2:30 a.m., the vehicle was again located near March Road and Highway 417. A tire deflation device was successfully deployed, deflating all four tires. The vehicle continued onto Highway 417, exited at Kanata Avenue, and intentionally struck a police vehicle. Police then made intentional contact to safely terminate the pursuit. Three occupants were arrested. A 28-year-old man, a 31-year-old woman, and a 42-year-old man, all from Ottawa, were charged with multiple offences, including Theft of a Motor Vehicle, Possession of Stolen Property, Assault a Peace Officer, Flight from a Peace Officer, Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Obstruct/Resist a Peace Officer, Utter Threats, Mischief to Property, and Breach of Probation.

On January 29th, 2026, at approximately 7:50 p.m., Ottawa Police attended the 800 block of St. Laurent Boulevard for a report of a stabbing. The victim was found by police and transported to the hospital by paramedics for serious but non-life threatening injuries. Two individuals are currently in custody. There is no ongoing risk to public safety while the investigation is ongoing.

On January 30th, 2026, the Ottawa Police Service Central Neighbourhood Resource Team (NRT) and the Drug Unit charged a man following an investigation into drug complaints from the community. In November and December 2025, the Central NRT received complaints from a business in the ByWard Market about drug dealing on their property and requesting assistance to combat the ongoing issue. On January 9, 2026, the Central NRT set up surveillance in the area where a man was observed conducting drug transactions. Officers then approached and arrested a man in his 40s for possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking. During a search, crack cocaine packaged for sale was found inside the man’s clothing, along with Canadian currency. Based on the observations and evidence recovered, the man was charged with possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking and possession of proceeds obtained by crime under $5000.

The Ottawa Police are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying 2 suspects involved in a commercial robbery on January 2nd in the 4000 block of Strandherd Drive. At approximately 6:23 p.m., two men entered into a business on Strandherd Drive and forced the clerk to access the vault. One of the suspects was armed with a firearm. Ultimately, the suspects stole a large quantity of technology from the store. Suspect 1 is described as White and in his 30s. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black jacket with a fur-lined hood and black pants. Suspect 2 is described as White. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black jacket with a fur-lined hood, black pants and a grey mask covering his face. Anyone with information is asked to contact the OPS Robbery Unit.

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On January 12, 2026, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) Drug Unit dismantled a local drug trafficking and distribution network following a year-long investigation into activity in the Ottawa region. Officers executed eight search warrants at six locations in Ottawa and two locations in Gatineau. Seven individuals from the Ottawa and Gatineau area were arrested, resulting in 61 criminal charges being laid. Six of the seven individuals were held in custody for show cause hearings, while one individual was released on a Promise to Appear. As a result of the search warrants, officers seized: Three crime handguns, quantities of cocaine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, MDA, crystal methamphetamine, MDMA, hydromorphone, oxycodone, pregabalin, liquid hydromorphone, as well as $185,390 in cash and 2 motor vehicles. Three additional individuals remain outstanding, and warrants are being sought for their arrest. These individuals will face a further 11 criminal charges.

On January 19th, 2026, the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) and The Royal announced a partnership to launch a new Mobile Crisis Response Team (MCRT), an initiative designed to deliver immediate, specialized support to individuals experiencing mental illness or substance use crises in the community. This collaboration will pair a clinical mental health professional from The Royal’s soon-to-open Urgent Care Clinic with a specially trained OPS officer from their Mental Health Unit. Together, they will respond to calls across the national capital regions, providing immediate, on-scene assessment, de-escalation, and direct connections to care and community services. This new MCRT will be in the community in spring 2026, complementing the opening of The Royal’s Urgent Care Clinic, which will fill a critical gap in service, offering timely, specialized, compassionate treatment for people in a mental health crisis. By improving coordination between health care and law enforcement, The Royal and OPS are making it easier for people to get the right care, when and where they need it. “The Ottawa Police is proud to partner with The Royal to launch a new Mobile Crisis Response Team. These MCRTs enable us to connect people to the care and support they need, reflecting the OPS’s commitment to responding to mental health crises in the community,” said Deputy Chief Paul Burnett, Ottawa Police Service. This initiative is supported through provincial funding from the Solicitor General of Ontario, with resources committed through 2027, and is the newest MCRT to launch in Ottawa, following the partnership between The Ottawa Hospital and OPS.

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On January 6, 2025, The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) seized a quantity of drugs following a traffic stop in the area of Patricia Avenue and Richmond Road. At approximately 1:00 p.m., West Neighbourhood Resource Team officers initiated a traffic stop for a Highway Traffic Act (HTA) offence. During the stop, the vehicle attempted to flee by colliding with OPS cruisers in an effort to escape. Officers were able to successfully prevent the vehicle from fleeing and due to the imminent threat to public safety, the officers conducted a high-risk arrest. During the investigation, the vehicle and its occupants were searched. The driver was found to be wanted by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) on a Canada-wide immigration warrant, and one of the passengers was wanted by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) on an outstanding warrant. A quantity of drugs was seized during the search and the five men, in their 20s, were arrested and charged with the following offences; Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, Flight from Police, and Dangerous Operation. The OPS Street Crime Section has taken carriage of the file. “The actions taken by our officers prevented a potentially dangerous situation from escalating further,” said Inspector Ian Hayes. “Drug trafficking and reckless attempts to evade police put lives at risk, and we will continue to take decisive action to protect our communities.”

On January 8, 2026, investigators from the Internet Child Exploitation Unit executed a search warrant at a residence in Ottawa’s east end. The Ottawa Police Service has arrested and charged an Ottawa teacher following an investigation into child sexual abuse and exploitation material (CSAEM) offences. Stephen Patrick Ruth, 39, was arrested and charged with distribution and possession of CSAEM. He appeared in court this afternoon. Ruth used the following online usernames: STEVERUTH/mrruthio/mrsruthio86. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service Internet Child Exploitation Unit.

On January 13th, the Ottawa Police Services put out a call for assistance in locating a missing 48 year old woman has been located safe and sound on January 14th. The Ottawa Police extend their thanks to the community for their assistance.

On January 14th, The Ottawa Police Service Human Trafficking Unit has charged a man in relation to human trafficking and other related charges. The investigation began in early November 2025, involving one female victim. The offences occurred between September 2022 and May 2024. Lochiel McCarthy, 25, of Ottawa is charged with the following offences; Trafficking in Persons under 18 x 2, Material Benefit x 2, Material Benefit under 18, Procuring under 18 x2, Advertising another person sexual services, Sexual Assault, Assault by choking x 3, Uttering death threats, Administer a noxious substance. Lochiel McCarthy is scheduled to attend court January 16, 2026. Investigators believe that there may be other victims of human trafficking related to this investigation. Considering potential victims may not know Mr. McCarthy’s legal name and he is alleged to have used the alias of ‘Lucky’, ‘Lucky number 13’, and ‘13’, the Ottawa Police is taking the extra step of publicly releasing a photo of the accused. The Human Trafficking Unit will respect victims’ wishes whether to pursue criminal charges, and regardless, can offer resources to support survivors of human trafficking. The reporting of these incidents by victims to police is key for investigators to identify suspects and determine crime trends. Anyone with information regarding incidents involving this individual is asked to call the Ottawa Police Service Human Trafficking Unit tip line.

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The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has charged a youth following an investigation into child sexual abuse and exploitation material (CSAEM) offences. On December 10, 2025, OPS Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit executed a search warrant at a home in Barrhaven following a tip from a social media platform reporting an unknown user uploading CSAEM online. The search led to the arrest of a male youth for making and possessing CSAEM, and the seizure of several electronic devices and media storage devices. They cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. The investigation is ongoing with examination of the digital evidence seized at the scene. Anyone with information is asked to contact the OPS ICE Unit.

On December 6th The OPS seized a significant quantity of alcohol and hookah following a warrant execution. The OPS launched an investigation into an unlicensed establishment in the 100 block of Laurier Avenue West earlier this year. On December 6th, members of the OPS frontline and the Central Neighbourhood Resource Team, supported by the Tactical Unit and Ottawa Fire Services, executed a search warrant at the establishment. The following items were seized; over 110 large bottles of alcohol, 25 sealed Hookah/Shisha Tobacco containers, and Canadian currency. The OPS continues to work with partner agencies to address illegal after-hours and unlicensed establishments operating in the city. These coordinated enforcement efforts aim to support public safety, uphold regulations, and maintain a fair environment for licensed businesses.

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is seeking the public’s assistance regarding a hit and run that occurred on Tuesday, December 9 in the Bank Street / Collins Avenue area. At approximately 7:47 a.m., a grey SUV was reported travelling northbound on Bank Street at a high rate of speed, cutting off other vehicles. As the SUV attempted to merge into traffic, it struck a black pickup truck. Both vehicles stopped near the intersection of Bank Street and Collins Avenue. However, the SUV then left the scene. Police would like to speak with anyone who witnessed the collision or may have dashcam footage of this incident and have not yet spoken to police. Anyone with information is asked to contact Cst. Maroun.

On December 14th, at approximately 8:48 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of Cumberland Street for a report of an individual suffering multiple stab wounds. The individual was transported to the hospital. Investigators would like to speak with anyone who may have dashcam footage or who witnessed the incident and has not yet spoken to the police. The Central Criminal Investigations Unit is investigating, and anyone with information is asked to contact.

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On Nov. 20, at approximately 5:30 p.m., an on-duty RCMP Officer was struck by a vehicle on the George Etienne Cartier Parkway while he was investigating a separate motor vehicle collision. An Ottawa Police Service (OPS) officer was on scene at the time and immediately provided first aid to the RCMP officer. The RCMP officer was transported to the hospital in non-life-threatening condition and is currently in stable condition in the hospital. The OPS will be taking the lead on the collision investigation involving the RCMP officer. The George Etienne Cartier Parkway north of St Joseph Boulevard remains closed at this time pending that investigation.

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect involved in a break and enter investigation in the 100 block of Kent Street on Sept. 29. At approximately 3:39 a.m., the suspect entered a hotel’s stock room and stole various electronics before leaving. The suspect is described as White, tall, with a thin build and approximately 25 to 40 years old. At the time of the incident, the suspect was wearing a black tuque, a black jacket over a dark t-shirt with white and red writing, dark-coloured pants and black and white shoes. Investigators would like to speak with anyone who may have information about this incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact the West Break and Enter Unit.

The Ottawa Police Service is seeking witnesses to a road rage incident on Oct. 19 in the Terry Fox Drive and Winchester Road area. At approximately 4:33 p.m., officers responded to reports of a road rage altercation between two people, which included an assault. No injuries were reported to the police on scene. Witnesses had intervened and attempted to de-escalate the situation between the drivers. The OPS would like to speak with any witnesses who have not already spoken with police and anyone who may have been in the Terry Fox Drive, Winchester Road, and Hazeldean Road area around the time of the incident.

On a positive note, the OPS is celebrating crossing 100 stories in their “Our Ottawa” series. Our Ottawa began as a simple initiative, with the OPS wanting to tell more of the impactful stories happening across our city—stories of connection, compassion, and community. Some of the stories are of officers who showed up for children, bringing joy to a difficult night at the hospital or where routine patrol turned into extraordinary rescue missions, with first responders saving many lives. Read more of the stories at the “Our Ottawa” page.

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Cops make drug bust in Vanier

Ottawa police say two men have been charged with drug trafficking offences after being stopped on Donald Street last week.

Police say members of their Vanier/Overbrook neighbourhood resource team were conducting “proactive patrols” when they saw a vehicle in the 200 block of Donald Street, and “engaged” with the occupants.

Police say the officers performed a drug search and discovered a “considerable quantity” of illicit substances, including fentanyl, cocaine, hydromorphone pills and crystal meth.

Police charged a 27-year-old man with four counts of trafficking in a controlled substance and possession for the purpose of trafficking and a 25-year-old man with three counts of trafficking in controlled substance, possession for the purpose of trafficking, fail to comply with a release order, possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000, and transporting cannabis unlawfully under the Cannabis Control Act.

Police seek victims after child porn bust

The Ottawa Police is asking victims to come forward after arresting a man last month for possession of child sexual abuse or exploitation materials.

John Norman Gordon was arrested on Oct. 24, but investigators say they’re “concerned that there may be other victims due to Gordon’s involvement in the community.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service Internet Child Exploitation Unit.

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On Oct. 26, 2 suspicious fires occurred. The first fire occurred in the 1700 block of Belcourt Boulevard at approximately 9:33 a.m. The second fire occurred in 2300 block of Cleroux Crescent at approximately 10:49 a.m. No injuries were reported in either incident, and the fires do not appear to be connected. The Arson and Explosion Section is investigating. Further updates will be shared as required.

The Ottawa Police Service is actively investigating the Oct. 15 shooting of a male on Somerset Street West after the victim died in hospital. Thirty-eight-year-old Nelson Getson succumbed to gunshot injuries on Oct. 24. There is no further risk to public safety at this time. This is the seventeen homicides in the City of Ottawa so far this year.

At approximately 9:38 a.m., on Oct 21 in the 1900 block of St. Laurent Boulevard a suspect entered a bank and threatened the staff with a firearm. The staff immediately called 911 and the suspect left the scene. Shortly after, the suspect approached a nearby parked vehicle and demanded the car keys from the victim, pointing a firearm and threatening to shoot. The suspect fled the scene in the stolen vehicle, which was recovered, abandoned, shortly after by police.

The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect involved. The suspect is described as White, with a medium build and dark moustache. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black hoodie, black sunglasses, and brown vest.

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On Tuesday October 21st, The Ottawa Police Service charged a 24-year-old woman from the Ottawa area with; breaking and entering into a dwelling, attempted break and enter, and wearing a disguise following an investigation into multiple break and enters in the Orleans area. In late September and October, several residences were targeted. In each case, the suspect reportedly rang the front doorbell multiple times before proceeding to the rear of the home to gain entry. With support from the East Neighbourhood Response Team and the Ottawa Police Crime Analysis Unit, investigators from the Break and Enter Unit were able to identify, arrest, and charge the suspect this past Friday.

Investigators are also seeking witnesses to a fatal two vehicle collision that occurred on Monday, October 20th at approximately 7:40am on Prince of Wales Drive near Third Line Road. One man in his 20s was pronounced deceased on scene and another person was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The OPS Fatal Collision Investigations Unit is investigating. Investigators would like to speak with anyone who witnessed the collision or may have dashcam or surveillance footage of this incident but has not yet spoken to police.

On Saturday, October 18th the Ottawa Police Service Homicide Unit announced it is investigating the stabbing death of 21-year-old Raphael Atende that occurred shortly after midnight on October 18th in the 1700 block of Russell Road. This is the fifteenth murder in Ottawa this year.

In serendipitous news, while conducting dive training out of town this week, members of the Ottawa Police Service Marine, Dive & Trails (MDT) Unit found themselves responding to a real-life emergency. The team observed a group of civilian divers signaling for help. One diver had experienced a rapid ascent after losing their dive weights underwater, surfacing abruptly and showing signs of distress. Without hesitation, one of the team’s paramedics entered the water to provide immediate assistance, supported by an officer who is a certified Medical Dive Technician operating under the license of a Dive Medical Doctor. The diver was safely brought to shore, where first aid was administered until local emergency responders arrived. The individual was later transported for further assessment of possible decompression sickness symptoms. The team’s quick actions and advanced training ensured the diver received immediate care and was stabilized until additional medical help arrived.

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