A horrific tragedy unfolded in Ottawa, Canada, as a woman from Sri Lanka and her four children were brutally stabbed to death in their home, along with another man who lived with them. The children’s father, also from Sri Lanka, was hospitalized with serious injuries following the attack.
The suspect, identified as 19-year-old Febrio De-Zoysa, a student who lived in the same home, was charged with six counts of first-degree murder and one count of attempted murder. The police were alerted to the scene after receiving two emergency calls late Wednesday night.
Ottawa’s police chief, Eric Stubbs, described the incident as the largest mass killing in the city in at least three decades, emphasizing that it was a senseless act of violence against innocent individuals. The victims were identified as the mother, Darshani Banbaranayake Gama Walwwe Darshani Dilanthika Ekanyake, her children, and another man living in the home.
The community, including members of The Hilda Jayewardenaramaya Buddhist Monastery where the family were active, were left in shock and mourning. The family had immigrated to Canada with dreams and plans for a better life, only to have their lives tragically cut short.
As the investigation continues, the community has come together to support the surviving family members and mourn the loss of those who were taken too soon. The temple, a central hub for the Sri Lankan community, is providing counseling and support to help its members cope with the devastating loss.
The tragic event has left the city reeling, with Mayor Mark Sutcliffe offering his condolences and reminding residents that such events are extremely rare in Ottawa. A memorial vigil held near the crime scene drew around 100 people, who came to pay their respects and remember the victims as caring and kind individuals who should not have met such a tragic end.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this senseless act, the road to recovery will be long and challenging. The support of the entire community, both locally and beyond, will be crucial in helping those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy find healing and solace in the midst of unimaginable grief.
