Residents in Deep River, Ontario have been advised to stay indoors following a stabbing incident on Wednesday evening, as per local authorities. Some schools and businesses in the area have announced closures until further notice.
Law enforcement is currently dealing with “an active incident involving a person of interest,” according to a statement shared on social media by the Deep River Police Service around 6 p.m. on Wednesday. People in the vicinity are urged to remain indoors, secure doors and windows, draw blinds, and avoid contact with unfamiliar individuals.
In an update posted at 2 a.m. on Thursday, Deep River police mentioned that they, along with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), are actively investigating and working to locate the suspect. The suspect remains at large as of now. OPP confirmed at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday that they are assisting in the case and the shelter-in-place directive remains in effect.
Residents can anticipate heightened police presence in the area and are advised to steer clear of the vicinity during the ongoing investigation. Any sightings of suspicious behavior or information relevant to the case should be promptly reported to the authorities.
Deep River Police provided an assurance that they will disclose more details as they unfold, while residents are instructed to remain indoors until an official clearance is issued.
In addition, the Town of Deep River announced on Thursday morning that all town facilities are closed until further notice, with waste collection services being postponed. Schools in the area, including Mackenzie Community School and St. Mary’s OLGC School, have also suspended operations for the day due to the unfolding situation. St. Anthony’s Catholic School in Chalk River implemented additional safety measures despite not being under a shelter-in-place order, opting to keep students indoors for the entire school day.
Various local businesses and organizations like Deep River and District Health, Canadian Tire, and Carefore Health and Community Services have also reported disruptions in their services on Thursday.