Police briefs: OPS adds 34 to force, Fatal Russell fire under investigation, Mississippi Mills youth charged with assaulting family,

OTTAWA – The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is pleased to introduce its newest class of recruits.

“This cohort arrives with broad professional backgrounds spanning public safety, healthcare, government, security, and community-based work,” the OPS released in a statement today (May 15). “Their experience includes roles in policing, border and bylaw services, youth mental health support, and both federal and municipal government, alongside a range of operational and administrative careers. Many also bring practical experience from trades, business, and frontline service positions completed while pursuing their studies.”

Their commitment to community engagement is also reflected through extensive volunteer involvement. This includes mentoring young people, coaching and supporting sports programs, assisting victims of crime, supporting individuals affected by domestic violence, contributing to addictions services, and participating in local initiatives that serve youth and other vulnerable members of the community.

Collectively, the group is multilingual, speaking languages such as Bangla, Creole, Arabic, and Punjabi, among others. They also hold post-secondary qualifications in fields including civil engineering, criminology, police foundations, business, law, sport psychology, and personal training and physiotherapy support.

“Their compassion, professionalism, and determination will support OPS in continuing to build a safe, inclusive, and welcoming city for all residents,” the OPS said. “Congratulations and welcome to the newest members of the OPS.”

A badge ceremony is a significant milestone in each recruit’s journey to becoming a police officer and underscores the vital role of policing in community safety and service.

The OPS is committed to building a team that reflects the community it serves; and it’s hiring. For more information on career opportunities, visit ottawapolice.ca.

Fatal Russell fire under investigation

RUSSELL – The OPS Arson and Explosion Unit is investigating a fatal fire that occurred last night (May 14).

On May 14, at approximately 10:50 p.m., emergency responders were called to a residential fire in the 1600 block of Russell Road.

 “Fire crews arrived on scene within five minutes and found an end-unit residential townhouse fully involved in flames, with the fire spreading to an adjacent unit,” Ottawa Fire Services (OFS) Fire Chief Paul Hutt released in a statement last night (May 14). “Under heavy fire conditions, firefighters immediately conducted search and rescue operations while beginning fire suppression efforts. Four occupants were able to self-evacuate. Tragically, one occupant was unable to escape and perished in the fire. OFS extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends affected by this tragic event.” 

Investigators are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact the Arson and Explosion Unit at 613-236-1222, extension 2202, or by email at arson@ottawapolice.ca.

Mississippi Mills youth assaults family

MISSISSIPPI MILLS – The Lanark County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has laid charges following a report of abuse in Mississippi Mills Township.

“Lanark County OPP officers responded to a residence on Thursday, May 14, after receiving a complaint about family members being assaulted in their home,” OPP media relations officer Const. Corey Noonan released in a statement today (May 15). 

As a result of the investigation, a 17-year-old male, has been charged with:

• Assault causing bodily harm – two counts
• Assault – two counts
• Assault with a weapon – two counts

The accused was held in custody for a bail hearing and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Youth Court of Justice at a later date. The name of the accused will not be released to protect the identity of the accused who is a young person.

Tae Kwon Do instructor charged in historical sexual assault

OTTAWA – The OPS Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit has charged an Ottawa man in relation to a historical sexual assault.

“On May 14, George Koh, 50, was arrested and charged with sexual assault alleged to have occurred in the summer of 2025 while coaching Tae Kwon Do,” the OPS released in a statement yesterday. “The allegations do not involve a child/minor.”

He is scheduled to appear in court yesterday afternoon.

Investigators are concerned there may be other victims and are asking anyone with information to contact the SACA Unit at 613-236-1222, extension 5944, or email SACA@ottawapolice.ca.

Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.

Fatal Mississippi Mills collision

MISSISSIPPI MILLS – One person has died following a single-vehicle collision in Mississippi Mills.

“On Wednesday, May 13, at approximately 9:45 p.m., members of the Renfrew OPP, McNab-Braeside Fire Department and Renfrew County Paramedic Services responded to a single-vehicle collision on Bayview Lodge Road in Mississippi Mills,” OPP media relations coordinator Sgt. Erin Cranton released in a statement yesterday (May 14). “Initial investigation indicates that a lone vehicle stuck a tree and became engulfed in flames prior to emergency services arriving on scene.”

The 27-year-old male driver from Mississippi Mills was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The OPP Traffic Incident Management and Enforcement (TIME) Team attended and is assisting with the ongoing investigation.

Bayview Lodge Road remained closed for serval hours.

Multiple distraction thefts in south Ottawa lead to three arrests

OTTAWA – The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has arrested three individuals in connection with a series of distraction thefts that occurred in the city’s south end On May 2.

“Within the span of approximately one hour, OPS received six calls for service reporting distraction-style thefts,” the OPS released in a statement yesterday (May 14). “In each case, suspects engaged victims in conversation to divert attention while stealing valuables. A licence plate associated with the suspect vehicle was obtained and quickly shared with responding officers. A short time later, patrol officers located and stopped the vehicle. Three occupants, all from the Greater Toronto Area, were arrested and charged with a robbery offence and several theft-related offences.”

Officers recovered a large quantity of stolen property, including gold necklaces, rings, and high-end watches. The suspect vehicle was also seized.

 There were no reported injuries. 

The investigation is being led by East Criminal Investigations.

Tips to prevent distraction theft:

• Be cautious of strangers approaching you and asking for help or directions
• Keep valuables out of sight and secure
• Maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially in parking lots and public spaces
• Trust your instincts—if something feels off, disengage and move to a safe area

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service at 613-236-1222. Anonymous tips.

Paddlers as vulnerable as boaters on the water

ONATRIO – More than 100 people in human-powered pleasure craft (canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards) were among the 249 people who died in OPP-investigated marine incidents in the last 10 full years (2016-2025).

“Significantly contributing to the loss of life was the fact that 205 (83 per cent) of those who died were not (or not properly) wearing a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) at the time of the incident,” OPP Highway Safety Division Sgt. Kerry Schmidt released in a statement Wednesday (May 13). “With capsized vessels and falling overboard being the leading causes in the majority (197) of the fatalities, the number one takeaway for boaters and paddlers should be that the proper use of a lifejacket or PFD gives you your best chance of surviving a marine incident.”

The OPP urges all boaters/paddlers to stop tossing this proven life-saving device aside and to wear it. Having it stored or nearby is of no help to you when you suddenly find yourself in the water.

Impairment by alcohol or drugs, operator inexperience, poor weather, and hazardous waterways are among the other most common contributing factors in boating fatalities. During Safe Boating Awareness Week, OPP Marine Officers will be out on the water promoting marine safety and enforcing federal boating laws.

The OPP reminds boaters and paddlers that a safe and enjoyable boating season starts with always being well-prepared. Ensure your vessel is properly equipped and functioning and check the weather to determine if it is safe to go out. Familiarize yourself with the 1-10-1-principle to help you understand how ending up in cold water can severely impact your ability to swim or even stay afloat.

Become well-versed in Canada’s Safe Boating Guide and always boat sober and drug-free!

Spring RIDE program

OTTAWA – The OPS is launching Spring into Safety: May RIDEs, a citywide impaired driving awareness and enforcement campaign focused on transparency, prevention, and public accountability. 

“This high-visibility public safety initiative is designed to raise awareness, generate media attention, and reinforce the seriousness of impaired driving in Ottawa,” the OPS released in a statement Wednesday (May 13).

As part of the campaign, lawn signs reading “Impaired Driver Caught Here” will be placed at locations where impaired drivers have been stopped. These signs are intended to make the scope of the issue visible in neighbourhoods and support deterrence through clear, public messaging. 

“The campaign offers a powerful visual reminder of how frequently impaired driving occurs across the city, reinforcing that it is happening in our communities,” the OPS said.

Until April 30, Ottawa saw one fatal collision linked to impaired driving, and 288 drivers were charged, marking a 22 per cent increase from the same period last year. 

In addition to enforcement, the initiative emphasizes prevention and public awareness, encouraging residents to plan ahead and never drive impaired. 

Weekly RIDE programs will take place throughout the campaign, with updates and data shared regularly.   

Spring into Safety: May RIDEs runs during Road Safety Week, supporting broader efforts to improve safety on Ottawa’s roads. 

If you suspect someone is driving impaired, call 911.   

Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca. 

One arrested in Perth murder

PERTH – Police have arrested and charged an individual in relation to a suspicious death in Perth. 

Investigators are asking for the public’s help to locate two individuals that remain wanted for second degree murder.

On Sunday, April 12, 2026, at approximately 3:15 p.m., officers from the Lanark County Detachment of the OPP responded to Last Duel Park, where one person was located with life-threatening injuries. The individual, identified as 34-year-old Christo Allison Richards of Ottawa, was transported to a trauma centre and later pronounced deceased.

“As a result of the ongoing investigation, Michael Lewis, 46 of Perth, has been arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit murder,” OPP media relations coordinator Sgt. Erin Cranton released in a statement May 12. “The accused remains in custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Perth on Tuesday, May 12.”

Arrest warrants have been issued for Joseph Madore, 34 of Ottawa, and Brayton Kennedy, 28 of Ottawa. Both are charged with second degree murder. If seen, do not approach. Anyone with information regarding their whereabouts is urged to contact police immediately.

“Investigators believe Madore is currently in British Columbia, with known associations in the Richmond, Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Terrace areas,” Cranton said. “Kennedy may be travelling with him or may still be in the Ottawa area.”

The Lanark County OPP is conducting the investigation, under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch, in conjunction with the Office of the Chief Coroner and the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service. 

Anyone with any information regarding this investigation is asked to immediately contact the Lanark County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca. 

Elderly assault on Riverside Drive

BILLINGS BRIDGE – The OPS is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect involved in an assault that occurred in the 2200 block of Riverside Drive in February 2026.

“At approximately 1:05 p.m. on Feb. 2, the suspect approached two elderly women who were walking in the area, one of whom was using a walker,” the OPS released in a statement May 11. “The suspect assaulted both women before fleeing on foot.”

One of the women sustained minor injuries.

The suspect is described as a White man, approximately 20 to 25 years old, with a thin build. At the time of the incident, he was wearing sunglasses, a dark tuque, a blue and green jacket, dark pants, and mismatched shoes, one black and one white.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Detective Vianney Calixte from East Criminal Investigations Section at 613-236-1222, extension 3281or email at calixtev@ottawapolice.ca.

Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or online at crimestoppers.ca.

OPP warn of online child luring

EAST REGION – The OPP is reminding parents, caregivers, and guardians to remain vigilant about online child luring, an offence where individuals use the internet or digital platforms to target and manipulate youth.

“Online luring can occur on a wide range of apps and platforms that children and teens use daily for gaming, chatting, or social interaction,” OPP media relations coordinator Sgt. Erin Cranton released in a statement May 11. “Offenders may initially present as friendly or supportive before engaging in manipulative, controlling, or exploitative behaviour.”

Parents are encouraged to understand how these platforms work, review privacy settings, and discuss safe online behaviour with their children.

Parents should watch for changes in behaviour, including:

• Sudden secrecy around devices or online activity
• Withdrawing from family, long‑time friends, or hobbies
• Deleting chat histories or refusing to discuss online contacts
• Talking about new “friends” they have never met in person

If you believe a child is being targeted online, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or call 911 in an emergency. Concerns can also be reported to Cybertip.ca, Canada’s national tip line for online child exploitation.