“This Shouldn’t Be Happening Here” Police Investigate Fatal ByWard Market Shooting Checking the Scene During an Emergency

Ottawa police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred in the ByWard Market during the early hours of Canada Day. The victim has been identified as Ryan Kabuya-Ntumba, a 21-year-old Ottawa resident. His death marks the third homicide in the Market area in 2019, raising renewed concerns about public safety in one of the city’s busiest tourist and nightlife destinations.

This article is based on reporting originally published by CBC News. You can read the full original story here:
👉 ‘Shouldn’t be happening here’: Police investigate ByWard Market homicide

What Happened

The shooting occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m. on Dalhousie Street, between York and George streets. The road was closed for several hours while police secured the area and gathered evidence, reopening later in the afternoon around 12:30 p.m.Officers already patrolling the area heard gunshots and responded immediately.

Upon locating the victim, police officers and nearby bystanders provided first aid until paramedics arrived and continued emergency treatment. The victim was transported to hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. No suspects have been taken into custody.

Investigation Details

According to Ottawa Police Major Crime Unit Staff Sgt. Bruce Pirt, the shooting was the result of an altercation that escalated. Police have not confirmed where the argument began.

Evidence from the incident could be seen along the sidewalk and outside nearby businesses, including outside Osmow’s restaurant and in front of Dunn’s Famous 24-hour diner. Police tape remained in place for much of the morning as investigators processed the scene.

Community Reaction: “Traumatic” and Concerning

Local business owners described the incident as deeply unsettling. Hassan Mazara, owner of Osmow’s restaurant, said the shooting occurred directly in front of his newly opened business.

“I have a person killed in front of my store. That’s traumatic,” he said.
“This is a major tourism hub in Ottawa. This shouldn’t be happening here.”

Nearby café owner Diana Martinez expressed similar concerns, noting that violence in the area has already forced some businesses to close earlier at night to protect staff.

Visitors were also affected. A family visiting from Montreal for Canada Day said it was upsetting to see such violence on what is meant to be a family-oriented holiday.

City Response

Mayor Jim Watson called the shooting “unacceptable” and emphasized that police presence was increased throughout the city for Canada Day celebrations, including Ottawa Police, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

A Troubling Pattern

This homicide marks the third in the ByWard Market in 2019:

A 42-year-old man was shot near York Street on June 7.
A 25-year-old man was shot and killed on York Street on April 18.

Charges were laid in both previous cases. This most recent shooting remains under investigation.

Why First Aid Training Matters in Real Emergencies

Violent incidents can happen without warning, even in busy public areas. In situations involving severe trauma or bleeding, immediate first aid can mean the difference between life and death while waiting for emergency services to arrive.

Learning how to control bleeding, assess the scene safely, and provide care under pressure is a key part of comprehensive first aid education. Courses such as Standard First Aid and CPR training prepare individuals to Respond confidently in real-life emergencies involving serious injuries.

Learn More About Emergency Response

Being prepared helps protect not only yourself, but also those around you during critical moments.

Helpful resources:

About The Author

Mark Kascha

Certified First Aid Instructor Trainer with 30+ years of real-world experience, including lifeguarding, workplace emergency response, and first aid program development across Canada. Has worked with WorkSafeBC, WSIB, and Manitoba Health.

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Last reviewed: March 2026

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