OTTAWA — A violent early morning incident in Gloucester has left one man dead, a woman injured, and a 38-year-old Ottawa man facing charges of second-degree murder and attempted murder. The Ottawa Police Service confirmed the arrest on Saturday, following a shocking scene that unfolded Friday, April 4, on Provender Avenue.
Officers responded just before 6 a.m. to reports of violence at a home in the east-end neighborhood. Upon arrival, they found 42-year-old Trevor Howard Needham with fatal injuries. A woman was also discovered at the residence suffering from wounds that, while serious, were not life-threatening. She was treated on the scene by paramedics before being taken to hospital. Police have not provided details on the nature of the injuries or the events that led up to the attack.
The suspect, whose name has not yet been released, was arrested later on Friday. He remains in custody and made his first court appearance on Saturday. Police say charges were formally laid, but they have yet to disclose any possible motive or confirm whether the accused had a relationship with the victims. The investigation is ongoing, and detectives are continuing to collect evidence and interview witnesses.
Residents of the quiet Gloucester neighborhood were left stunned. Many awoke to flashing lights and the sound of sirens as officers secured the area. For much of the day Friday, a section of Provender Avenue remained cordoned off as forensic teams examined the scene and police spoke with neighbors. Officers were seen conducting door-to-door interviews in hopes of gathering more details.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, especially residents with security cameras who may have captured footage around the time of the incident. The Ottawa Police Homicide Unit is leading the investigation and stressed that even minor details could be important in piecing together what happened.
Second-degree murder in Canada refers to a killing that is intentional but not premeditated. Attempted murder charges indicate that the suspect allegedly intended to kill the surviving victim. Police have not confirmed if any weapons were used in the attack or whether more charges may follow.
Support services have been made available to those impacted, and police are encouraging anyone struggling emotionally to seek help. This case has sparked renewed concern over issues related to domestic and interpersonal violence, and community leaders are urging vigilance and support for prevention efforts.
As the investigation into the death of Trevor Needham and the assault of the unidentified woman continues, Ottawa Police say they remain committed to transparency and justice. Further updates are expected as the legal process unfolds.
