Several recent sexual assaults, including stranger-based assaults, under investigation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, July 30, 2026  1:00 p.m.

(Ottawa) – The Ottawa Police Service Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Section is investigating several sexual assaults reported in recent days, including incidents involving victims who were approached or attacked by people they did not know.

Based on the information available at this time, investigators do not believe the incidents are connected. Each case continues to be investigated on its own facts and evidence. However, the circumstances of some of the reported assaults are concerning, and residents are being encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and report suspicious behaviour.

Among the active investigations is the July 28 sexual assault of a woman who was walking on a pathway near Truro Street and Carpenter Way. The woman was approached by an unknown man who was reportedly armed with a knife. The suspect sexually assaulted her before fleeing the area.

Investigators have released a description of the suspect and continue to seek witnesses and information. More details are available here.

The Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Section is also investigating other recently reported sexual assaults, including stranger-based incidents. Some of these investigations have resulted in arrests and charges, while others remain ongoing. The charges have not been proven in court.

“These are concerning incidents, particularly those involving victims who reported being approached by someone they did not know,” said Deputy Chief Patricia Ferguson. “Our investigators are working to identify those responsible and advance each investigation. We are asking members of the public to remain attentive, look out for one another and report suspicious behaviour.”

We encourage residents to consider taking reasonable personal-safety precautions, particularly when travelling alone or through isolated areas. Some options could include choosing well-lit and populated locations, letting someone know your anticipated route or arrival time, and contacting police when a person or situation causes concern.

Police recognize that responsibility for sexual violence rests solely with the person who commits it. These safety suggestions are provided to allow residents to make informed decisions and is not intended to suggest or imply that victims are responsible for preventing an assault.

Anyone with information about the incident detailed is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Section at 613-236-1222, extension 5944.

If you are a victim or survivor of sexual violence, resources are available. Victims and survivors can access confidential local resources for support and counselling.  Support is available regardless of whether you choose to report to police.

Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477 or online at crimestoppers.ca

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Through the Community Safety Data portal data.ottawapolice.ca, members of the public can view, download, and interact with data released by the Ottawa Police Service.

Help make your community safer: register your information and security camera location at CAMSafe.ca to support investigations.

CONTACT: 

Media Relations

Tel: 613-236-1222, ext.  5366

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