A man in his 60s was found with serious stab wounds near Ottawa’s ByWard Market on Sunday morning, prompting a major police investigation in one of the city’s busiest districts.
The Ottawa Police Service responded to an emergency call just before 9 AM on December 14, finding the victim in critical condition on Besserer Street near Cumberland Street. First responders worked quickly to stabilize the man, who has since been upgraded to stable condition. Police are now canvassing for witnesses and seeking information from anyone who may have seen suspicious activity in the area.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: A man in his 60s was discovered with multiple stab wounds in a parking lot near ByWard Market on Sunday, December 14, 2025. Paramedics transported him to a trauma centre in critical condition, but his status has since improved to stable. Ottawa Police are actively investigating and asking witnesses to come forward.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | Sunday, December 14, 2025 |
| 📍 Location | Besserer Street & Cumberland Street, ByWard Market |
| ⏰ Time Discovered | 8:50 AM |
| 🎟️ Victim Status | Stable condition |
What Happened
According to the Ottawa Police Service, the man was found at approximately 8:50 AM in a parking lot on Besserer Street. A spokesperson confirmed that the victim was in critical condition when first responders arrived.
Ottawa Paramedic Service confirmed they responded to the scene of a stabbing near the corner of Cumberland Street and Besserer Street. Paramedics assessed, treated, and transported the man to a trauma centre, describing him as being in a “very serious situation.”
Witnesses reported hearing cries for help from the area. One resident, Chris Beeston, had just returned home from walking his dog when he heard the victim calling out.
“The gentleman was laying on the ground. There was a tremendous amount of blood loss,” Beeston recounted. “We could see it from the ninth floor, which was shocking.”
Photos taken of the scene show blood splattered in the snow of the parking lot, police investigating a white car, and that vehicle later being towed away as part of the investigation.
Victim’s Condition Upgraded
In positive news, the victim’s condition was later upgraded to stable, according to police. This update came several hours after the initial discovery.
Beeston praised the quick response of emergency services, noting that their rapid action likely saved the man’s life.
“The police acting so fast, they saved the guy—there was a lot of blood,” Beeston said. “And the team worked very hard to make sure this man was going to live.”
Police remained at the scene until approximately 11:40 AM on Sunday, conducting their investigation and documenting evidence.
Police Investigation Ongoing
Ottawa Police have launched a full investigation into the stabbing. Officers canvassed the area on Sunday, speaking with potential witnesses and reviewing any available surveillance footage from nearby businesses and residences.
The circumstances surrounding the attack remain unclear. Police have not released information about potential suspects or motives.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222, extension 5166. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
ByWard Market Safety Concerns
This incident adds to ongoing concerns about safety in and around Ottawa’s ByWard Market area. The historic district, popular with tourists and locals alike, has seen various incidents in recent months that have sparked community discussions about security and policing.
Local business owners and residents have previously called for increased police presence and better lighting in certain areas of the market. City councillors representing the downtown core have committed to working with police on strategies to improve safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has anyone been arrested in connection with this stabbing?
As of the latest police update, no arrests have been announced. The investigation is ongoing, and police are actively seeking witnesses and information.
Is the ByWard Market safe to visit?
The ByWard Market remains a vibrant destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment. However, visitors should exercise normal urban safety precautions, especially during late-night hours. Police maintain regular patrols in the area.
How can I report information about this incident?
Contact Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222, extension 5166, if you have any information. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at crimestoppers.ca.
What should I do if I witness a violent incident?
Call 911 immediately. If safe to do so, try to remember details about suspects, vehicles, and the direction of travel. Do not attempt to intervene directly in violent situations.
Are there other recent violent incidents in this area?
Ottawa Police continue to investigate various incidents across the city. Residents are encouraged to sign up for Ottawa Police news releases to stay informed about local safety matters.
Final Thoughts
While this stabbing near ByWard Market is deeply concerning, the victim’s improvement to stable condition offers some relief. The swift response from Ottawa Police and paramedics demonstrates the effectiveness of emergency services in critical situations.
The investigation remains active, and community cooperation is essential. If you have any information that could assist police, please come forward. Together, Ottawa residents can help ensure accountability and work toward a safer downtown core.
Source: CBC Ottawa
