Homicide Unit investigating suspicious deaths

The OPS Homicide Unit and Sûreté du Québec are currently investigating the suspicious deaths of two Ottawa residents. 

Shortly before 1 a.m. ET on Aug. 22, Sûreté du Québec responded to a single-vehicle collision, east on Highway 50 near Papineauville, Quebec. They then located an individual inside the vehicle with injuries considered suspicious in nature. They were transported to a hospital and died shortly thereafter. As the investigation progressed, Sûreté du Québec requested assistance from the OPS. At approximately 11:09 a.m. Ottawa Police officers attended a dwelling on Guigues Avenue, in Ottawa. Upon entering, officers located a second deceased person.

The deceased have been identified as 27-year-old Kesi Fevrier and 34-year-old Kingsley Nwude, both of Ottawa. Authorities are investigating the death of Kesi Fevrier as a femicide. The investigation remains ongoing as investigators continue to gather evidence and speak with potential witnesses. There is no ongoing threat to public safety. Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact the OPS Homicide Unit.

Police investigating pills found in three east-end parks

The OPS is continuing to investigate after various types of pills were found scattered around three east-end parks. Yesterday, police conducted an extensive search at several Orléans parks and found additional pills located in a third park. Officers have now recovered and seized more than 100 pills at these three parks in close proximity to one another:

•             Blue Willow Park, located on Longleaf Drive;
•             Silverbirch Park, located on Silverbirch Street; and
•             Ruisseau Park, located on Creek Crossing Street.

Police also searched other nearby parks, but found no pills or other unknown substances. The investigation remains ongoing, and residents are asked to be alert of any suspicious activity in the area. Anyone who locates pills or other unknown substances is asked to leave them in place and contact police immediately. Please contact the OPS East Criminal Investigation Section if you have any information.

READ MORE: Ottawa Police Blotter – August 19

Police remove 18 vehicles from Ottawa roads

The OPS, alongside the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO), conducted a joint commercial vehicle safety blitz in Ottawa’s east end on Thursday, Aug. 20. CVSA-qualified inspectors from MTO, with support from several OPS units, including East District Traffic, the Road Safety Unit, Impaired Countermeasures and Impounded Vehicles, conducted mechanical safety inspections on commercial vehicles. They inspected a total of 57 vehicles. The enforcement initiative resulted in:

• 18 vehicles taken off the road
• 34 charges laid
• Three licence plates seized

Vehicles were removed from the road for safety-related deficiencies involving brakes and brake components, improper or overloaded tires, improper driver’s licences, insecure loads, missing daily logs, faulty directional signals and a broken trailer floor. One of the insecure loads involved dangerous goods. 

Authorities laid multiple charges for offences related to improper or missing daily trip inspection reports, missing annual inspection certificates, improper tires, major vehicle defects, Commercial Vehicle Operator’s Registration (CVOR) issues, permit violations, overweight vehicles, improper driver’s licences, disobeying signs and tinted windows.

The post Ottawa Police Blotter – August 26 appeared first on CompassNews.

Facebook Marketplace Robbery Investigations

On Aug. 9, police received a report of a robbery following a sale arranged through Facebook Marketplace. During the transaction, the suspect produced a handgun and took an item from the victim. Investigators are asking anyone who was in the area between 7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. and may have dashcam or other video footage to contact police. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Robbery Unit.

This is the second Facebook Marketplace robbery to occur in less than a week. On Aug. 10, an attempted robbery and firearm discharge occurred outside a financial institution in the 1100 block of Beaverwood Rd. around 10:30 a.m. A seller had arranged to meet a prospective buyer through Facebook Marketplace outside of the institution. During the meeting, a male, now identified as a young offender, allegedly attempted to rob the seller and pointed a firearm.

Two shots were fired during the incident, thankfully striking noone.The victim sustained minor injuries. Three people, including a security guard, the victim and an off-duty police officer, took the suspect into custody. The suspect was transported to CHEO for minor injuries sustained during the arrest. Authorities recovered a firearm. The investigation remains ongoing and investigators ask that anyone with information contact the Robbery Unit.

OPS Seeks Assistance IDing People in ByWard Market Assault 

The OPS is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying three individuals in connection with an assault that occurred on Saturday, July 11, in the area of York Street and ByWard Market Square. The assault resulted in the victim suffering a broken arm. 

Investigators believe Subject 1 was involved in the assault, while Subjects 2 and 3 may have information relevant to the investigation. Police describe Subject 1 as a white female with long dark-brown hair. At the time of the incident, she was wearing a black sleeveless dress and carrying a pink purse. They say Subject 2 is a female with tan or olive skin and long dark hair. At the time of the incident, she was wearing a red dress and high heels. 

Police say Subject 3 is a white male with brown hair and brown facial hair, including a moustache and facial hair on his chin. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a white short-sleeve shirt, blue jeans, white shoes and carrying a black shoulder bag. 

Anyone who can help identify these individuals or who has information about the incident should contact the OPS Central Investigations Section.

READ MORE: Ottawa Police Blotter – August 12

Bagpiper Assault Investigation Ongoing

On Aug. 15, shortly after 4 p.m. ET the OPS arrested a man following an assault. An unknown man approached and assaulted the victim with an edged weapon while the victim was playing the bagpipes on the sidewalk. The suspect left the area but was quickly located and arrested by officers nearby. 

The victim sustained minor injuries to his hand and was treated at the scene by paramedics. Authorities arrested 25-year-old Jean Dorestant, who faces charges of Assault with a Weapon, Assault Causing Bodily Harm, Possession of a Dangerous Weapon, Obstruct/Resist Arrest, and two counts of Breach of Probation. The investigation remains ongoing and the OPS asks that anyone with information or video surveillance footage related to this incident to contact its Central Investigations Section.

The post Ottawa Police Blotter – August 19 appeared first on CompassNews.

Downtown Rideau Area Stabbing

On Aug. 4, authorities brought a male victim to the hospital in critical condition following a stabbing in the Downtown Rideau area. Police were notified and located the scene of the incident near the intersection of Daly Avenue and Nicholas Street. No one is currently in custody, and the investigation is ongoing. There is no known threat to public safety at this time. The OPS asks that anyone with information about this incident contact its Central Investigations Section.

Arrest Following Rideau Street Sexual Assault

At approximately 8 a.m on Aug. 2, an Ottawa police officer responded to a disturbance near the 400 block of Rideau St. The officer met with an adult female who reported that an unknown male had approached her from behind while she was walking. The suspect allegedly sexually assaulted her and attempted to expose himself. The officer quickly located the suspect nearby and arrested him without incident. 44-year-old Nasir Abdi Suldaan faces a charge of one count of sexual assault and breach of probation. He will appear in court on Aug. 18. 

Fatal Collision on Colonel By Drive

At 2:35 a.m. on Aug. 8, a collision occurred on Colonel By Drive south of Rideau Street. The single vehicle collision involving a motorcycle resulted in the fatality of a 33-year-old male. Police would like to speak with anyone who witnessed the collision or may have dashcam footage of this incident and has not yet spoken to police. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Fatal Collision Investigation Unit.

The post Ottawa Police Blotter – August 12 appeared first on CompassNews.

Youths Charged in Craig Henry Drive Stabbing

On July 23, frontline officers responded to a call regarding a stabbing in the 100 block of Craig Henry Dr. At approximately 9:35 p.m. ET, officers located a man who had been assaulted with an edged weapon. Authorities transported the victim to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Two youths now face charges. There are no ongoing concerns for public safety. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers online or via phone.

OPS Seeking Witnesses to Sexual Assault

At approximately 5 p.m. on July 28, a woman was walking and pushing a child in a stroller on a paved pathway in the area of Truro Street and Carpenter Way when she was approached by an unknown man. The suspect, armed with a knife, sexually assaulted the woman before fleeing the area. The victim was transported to hospital, where she is receiving support. The OPS Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Section (SACA) is investigating and is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect. The man was described as a white male, approximately 40 years of age, with a medium build and a dark beard. He was English-speaking with no noticeable accent, dressed in a black hoodie with front pockets and brown shoulders and sleeves, faded blue jeans, and brown tennis-style shoes. 

Investigators ask that anyone who was in the area of Truro Street and Carpenter Way (see map) at approximately 5 p.m. on July 28 contact police. Detectives are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity or who has dashcam, doorbell, or security camera footage from the area. A map of the area where the incident occurred is available on the OPS’s social media platforms.

Collaboration with Philippines Authorities in Child Protection Operation

An investigation by the OPS Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit contributed to the protection of eight victims, including five children, following a coordinated international investigation into online child sexual exploitation in the Philippines. 

The investigation began in July 2025 after the OPS received information from the National Child Exploitation Crime Centre (NCECC) regarding a cybertip.ca report submitted by an Ottawa resident. OPS investigators obtained evidence that helped corroborate the online activity and supported an international referral through the RCMP’s Transnational Child Sex Offender Unit. Working in partnership with the NCECC, the RCMP, and law enforcement partners in the Philippines, investigators were able to advance the case.

This led to an enforcement operation by the Human Trafficking Division of the Philippine National Bureau of Investigation. As a result of that operation, authorities arrested one suspect for online child sexual exploitation offences. Investigators brought eight victims to safety (including five children), seized evidence, and identified instances of child sexual abuse and exploitation. The victims are now under the care of child protection and social service agencies. 

The OPS encourages anyone who encounters suspected online child sexual exploitation to report it immediately. Reports can be made through cybertip.ca or by contacting your local police service. Prompt reporting can play a critical role in protecting children and supporting investigations both in Canada and internationally.

The post Ottawa Police Blotter – August 5 appeared first on CompassNews.

Home invasion in Dunblane Way area

On July 19, between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. ET, suspects entered a residence in the area of Dunblane Way and Cabrelle Place. The suspects are described as four men and one woman, who were dressed as construction workers. Investigators are asking anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area, or who has doorbell camera or dashcam footage from the time of the incident, to contact the Robbery Unit.

Rideshare driver facing sexual assault charges

On July 28, the OPS’s Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit arrested and charged an Ottawa resident with sexual offences following an investigation that commenced on July 25. 36-year-old Mohamed Laarous faces charges of one count of sexual assault. OPS investigators believe there could be other victims in and around the Ottawa area as Laarous was a rideshare driver for Uber and Lyft. They are encouraging anyone with information to reach out to the OPS Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit.

Charges in Vanier, Byward drug-trafficking investigation

Beginning in May, the OPS commenced an investigation into two individuals believed to be trafficking drugs in the Vanier and ByWard Market areas. As part of the investigation, members of the OPS Guns and Gangs Unit obtained search warrants for multiple locations. On July 22, with the assistance of the OPS Tactical Unit and the Central Neighbourhood Resource Team (NRT), officers executed the search warrants and arrested two individuals. Searches of the locations resulted in the seizure of a quantity of cocaine, hydromorphone pills, cash and drug-trafficking paraphernalia. The two men, both in their 20s, each face charges of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 and possession of a schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking.

The post Ottawa Police Blotter – July 29 appeared first on CompassNews.

Missing 13-Year-Old Girl to Locate

The OPS is seeking the public’s assistance with locating a 13-year-old missing person named Saralyn Sheppard. Her family have concerns for her well-being. She was last seen in the Wiggins Private and Chapel Crescent area on July 19. Sheppard is described as a White female, 5’6″ tall, with a medium build, light brown eyes and long red hair. She was possibly wearing a red sweater and black leggings. Anyone with information is asked to call the Central Division Staff Sergeant’s Desk.  Images of Saralyn are available for viewing on the OPS social media pages. 

Joint human trafficking investigation leads to three arrests; police seek additional victims

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Provincial Anti-Human Trafficking Unit East Team, in partnership with the OPS through the Intelligence-led Joint Forces Strategy (IJFS), is seeking additional victims following a lengthy multi-jurisdictional human trafficking investigation that resulted in the arrest of three men from the Ottawa area.

The accused are: 28-year-old Moad Ben Yahya, a.k.a. ‘Benzi’, 27-year-old Abdulaziz Al-Zouaghi, a.k.a. ‘Zee’, and 26-year-old Mohammad Elmuradi, a.k.a. ‘Mur.’ The three face numerous human trafficking and human-trafficking-related charges.

Between 2025 and July 2026, investigators from the OPP Provincial Anti-Human Trafficking Unit East Team and the OPS Human Trafficking Unit conducted a complex investigation into an alleged organized human trafficking network operating between Ottawa and the Greater Toronto Area. The investigation originated in the Ottawa and London regions and expanded to multiple communities across Ontario, including Windsor, London, Toronto and Sarnia.

Throughout the investigation, authorities identified several women as potential victims. To date, six women have come forward and provided statements to investigators. Police worked closely with these victims to ensure they received immediate access to specialized supports and services. Anyone with information about the accused individuals or this investigation is encouraged to contact the OPS Human Trafficking Unit.

Crossbow bolt lodged in Orléans home

In an update to an incident that occurred overnight between June 7 and June 8, the OPS has concluded an investigation into a crossbow bolt lodged in a home. Following an extensive investigation, members of East Criminal Investigations identified the person responsible. Investigators conducted a neighbourhood canvass, reviewed surveillance footage, interviewed witnesses and worked with the Ministry of Natural Resources and other partner agencies.

On July 17, the individual visited the East District station and admitted to firing a crossbow bolt at a coyote while walking along a nearby pathway. The bolt missed the animal, ricocheted off the pavement and was later found lodged in the residence. No injuries to either humans or animals were reported. The individual was deemed suitable for diversion, an alternative process that promotes accountability through appropriate conditions or programming rather than formal prosecution.

The post Ottawa Police Blotter – July 22 appeared first on CompassNews.

OPS Officer Charged with Operation while Impaired

On July 8, authorities charged an OPS officer, Cst. Mathieu Boucher, with operation while impaired with a blood alcohol over 80mg in an off-duty incident from June 27. While he remains on active duty, he is reassigned to administrative duties and is not currently serving in a frontline patrol capacity.

Home Invasion in Orléans 

On July 9, 2026, at approximately 4 a.m. ET, three suspects entered a residence in the 1700 block of Stoneboat Cres. and assaulted the occupants of the home. One of the victims was transported to hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries, while the suspects fled the scene. Authorities ask that anyone with information contact the Robbery Unit, as the investigation is still ongoing.

Fallowfield Road Collision Charges

In a follow-up to a previous story of a serious collision that occurred on Fallowfield Road on May 11, the OPS has charged an Ottawa man in relation to this collision. At approximately 7:19 p.m. ET, officers responded to a call at Fallowfield Road and Via Park Place for a collision involving one vehicle and a pedestrian. A 29-year-old woman later died of her injuries. A man in his 40s now faces charges of Careless Driving Causing Death under the Highway Traffic Act. The investigation is now concluded.

Indecent Act in Stittsville

The OPS are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man who publicly exposed himself and masturbated, targeting women. Authorities obtained photos from an incident that took place on Friday, July 10, at approximately 3 p.m. in the 1300 block of Stittsville Main St. These photos are viewable on the OPS website. If you have any information, please contact West District Investigations.

The post Ottawa Police Blotter – July 15 appeared first on CompassNews.

Merivale Road Shooting

On July 4, at approximately 7:20 P.M. ET, an altercation occurred between two large groups. Shots were fired into a vehicle of people involved in the altercation, striking one passenger. They were taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities took two people into custody at the scene, later releasing them pending further investigation.

The OPS is asking anyone with information to contact the Guns and Gangs Unit.

Murder-Suicide Investigation Continues

In a follow-up to the homicide of the two young boys in their Mandevilla Crescent home on June 29, the OPS seeks to support the boys’ mother and to respect her privacy. The names of the children will not be released publicly.

Police have, however, released the identity of the father. Authorities found 40-year-old Mohammed Al-Lami deceased in the Kemptville area and believe he caused the children’s deaths. Several investigative and forensic examinations are still outstanding and require time to complete.

Finlayson Crescent Hostage Situation

On the morning of July 2, at approximately 7 a.m. ET, the OPS received a 911 call about a woman being held hostage at knife point inside a home on Finlayson Crescent. Officers responded and established a secure perimeter around the residence.

A significant police presence remained in the area throughout the incident to ensure public safety and support efforts to resolve the situation peacefully. For more than 14 hours, officers and negotiators worked to peacefully resolve the situation. At 9 p.m. ET, the Tactical Unit made entry into the residence and rescued the woman, who was physically unharmed, and is receiving appropriate support. An officer shot the man, and he was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

The investigation remains ongoing, and charges are pending. Additional information will be released as it becomes available. In accordance with standard procedure when a police firearm is discharged, authorities have notified the Special Investigations Unit to ensure it can fulfill its mandate. 

The post Ottawa Police Blotter – July 8 appeared first on CompassNews.

Man carrying imitation gun

On June 18, at approximately 12:27 a.m. ET, officers responded to a report of a man dressed in black and carrying what appeared to be an assault-style rifle. Officers quickly located the man on Seneca Street and made an arrest without incident. An imitation assault-style rifle, a replica handgun with a magazine, and additional magazines were seized. The OPS Central Investigations Section has charged a man in his 20s with two counts of possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace, one count of carrying a concealed weapon, one count of common nuisance/endangering the lives or safety of the public and one count of mischief.

OPS officer facing charges in Halton

On June 19, the OPS was notified that Staff Sergeant Walt Lushman had been charged by the Halton Regional Police Service following an off-duty incident in Oakville. The incident occurred on Friday, June 12, at approximately 10:20 p.m. ET, following an alleged dispute related to a collision between two vehicles. Staff Sergeant Lushman has been charged with one count of assault and was released on an undertaking with conditions. The matter remains under criminal investigation by the Halton Regional Police Service. Staff Sergeant Lushman will have no public-facing duties while authorities investigate this matter.

Whereabouts unknown after hate-motivated assault

On June 20, at approximately 3:30 p.m. ET in the 100 block of Woodridge Cres., unprovoked, a man approached a woman and uttered a racial slur, forcibly removed her hijab and threw an umbrella at her, before fleeing on foot. Fortunately, the victim sustained no physical injuries. The suspect was unknown to the victim and remains outstanding. If you have information related to this incident, please contact the OPS. 

Months-long investigation concludes

The OPS Break and Enter Unit has concluded a months-long investigation into a series of break and enters affecting businesses in the Vanier and Overbrook areas. The investigation began on Feb. 1, and focused on incidents occurring through June 1. Across 20 incidents, suspects targeted several businesses, including some they victimized more than once. Authorities arrested a 45-year-old man, who remains in custody. The accused faces a total of 61 Criminal Code charges, including multiple counts of break and enter, mischief, possession of break-in instruments, and breaching probation. The man is scheduled to appear in court on June 29.

Last week’s crime coverage.

The post Ottawa police blotter – June 24 appeared first on CompassNews.

Police arrest youth for arson

On June 9, emergency crews, including Ottawa Fire Services (OFS), responded to a fire just before 3:30 p.m. ET. All residents escaped the burning home. One person suffered minor smoke inhalation. Sadly, three dogs perished in the fire. The OFS Fire Investigator and the Office of the Fire Marshal are conducting an investigation in partnership.

Authorities have arrested a youth, who cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, in relation to this incident. The youth faces charges of: Arson – disregard for human life, Arson – causing property damage, Possession of incendiary material for arson, Uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm (x2), Killing/injuring animals (x3), and Causing unnecessary suffering to an animal (x3). The youth appeared in court on June 10. 

Residents report shooting

On June 10, at approximately 4:00 a.m. ET, multiple people made 911 calls reporting that they’d heard gunshots in the area of Fine Crescent. One resident reported that a shot hit their house. Officers attended and located evidence of a shooting. There were no reported injuries, and investigators have made no arrests. The OPS believes that this was a targeted shooting. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Guns and Gangs Unit.

Three charged for counterfeiting

On June 13, three individuals were charged following an investigation into the use of counterfeit Canadian currency in fraudulent online marketplace transactions. Since March, the OPS has received multiple reports of individuals using counterfeit banknotes to purchase legitimate items advertised on online platforms, including Facebook Marketplace. Reported items have included electronics, collectible cards, gold jewellery, and computer equipment. Multiple victims have reported losses totaling tens of thousands of dollars.

On June 13, at approximately 6:00 a.m. ET, members of the Ottawa Police Tactical Unit, along with supporting units, executed a search warrant at a residence in the Parkwood Hills area in Ottawa’s west end. Authorities located and arrested three individuals inside the residence. One individual attempted to flee before being taken into custody.

As part of the investigation, officers seized thousands of dollars in counterfeit currency believed to be connected to fraudulent online transactions. Officers also seized legitimate currency they believe are proceeds of crime. During the search, officers allege they recovered; thousands of dollars in counterfeit and legitimate currency, a quantity of stolen property and approximately 1.5 kilograms of cannabis, with additional charges anticipated as the investigation continues.

The accused, all from Ottawa, have been identified as: 29-year-old Ali Qasem, 21-year-old Hudie Ghezel, and 18-year-old Yassir Farah. The OPS asks anyone with information related to this investigation to get in contact. 

The post Ottawa crime coverage – June 17 appeared first on CompassNews.