Residents in Deep River, Ontario, have been advised to remain indoors following a stabbing incident on Wednesday evening that resulted in one individual sustaining life-threatening injuries, as per the authorities. The town, with a population of approximately 4,200 residents situated along the Trans-Canada Highway, has been instructed to stay inside, secure their homes by locking doors and windows, drawing blinds, and refraining from interaction with unfamiliar individuals since around 7:20 p.m. on Wednesday. Some schools and businesses in the area have announced closures until further notice.
At this time, there is no available information regarding any suspects or arrests linked to the incident. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) disclosed that officers were called to a “serious incident” on McElligott Drive at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
A person with severe injuries was rushed to the hospital, and as of 11 a.m. on Thursday, the individual remained alive, according to the OPP. In an update shared at 2 a.m. on Thursday, the Deep River police stated that they, alongside the OPP, are actively investigating and striving to locate the involved suspect who remains at large.
Expressing concerns, Deep River Mayor Suzanne D’Eon conveyed her unease to CBC News on Thursday, emphasizing the unusual nature of such events in their community and extending sympathy to the victim’s family and friends without knowing the victim personally.
Deep River serves as a pivotal stopover point between Ottawa and North Bay, alongside Mattawa on the opposite end, within a predominantly remote region along the Ottawa River east of Algonquin Park.
Additionally, numerous facilities in Deep River have been closed until further notice, with waste collection services being postponed. School closures have been announced, affecting Mackenzie Community School and St. Mary’s OLGC School, among others. St. Anthony’s Catholic School in Chalk River, located south of Deep River, will be open but has implemented additional safety measures, including keeping students indoors throughout the school day.
Various businesses and organizations, such as Deep River and District Health, Canadian Tire, and Carefor Health and Community Services, reported disruptions on Thursday due to the situation. Mayor D’Eon commended the community for adhering to safety instructions but expressed a desire for more effective communication methods beyond social media and public announcements to disseminate shelter-in-place orders.