WARNING: This story contains graphic descriptions of violence.
Two people are dead and a third critically injured after a multiple stabbing near a safe injection site and encampment in Kingston, Ont., on Thursday morning.
In an update Thursday afternoon, Kingston Mayor Bryan Paterson said the violence unfolded near the city’s Consumption Treatment Services and Integrated Care Hub at 661 Montreal St.
“Kingston Police are reporting there are two fatalities, with a third person transported to hospital with life threatening injuries,” Paterson said in a statement.
Earlier, Frontenac County paramedics told CBC all three victims — two males and a female — were taken to hospital in critical condition.
An hours-long standoff between police and the alleged attacker ended with his arrest shortly before 5 p.m.
Kingston Police said they were first called to the scene near Belle Park around 10:40 a.m., where they located the victims.
Kingston Police Const. Anthony Colangeli said officers are investigating multiple crime scenes. Police closed Montreal Street between Hickson Avenue and Railway Street due to an incident.
Colangeli said it’s been a difficult day for clients at the Integrated Care Hub, who will be offered support.
Witness describes violent scene
A man who lives in the nearby encampment said he witnessed the incident and is “familiar” with the individuals involved. CBC has agreed not to identify the man for his safety.
He said he witnessed a man punch another man to the ground and stab him.
“After he stabbed him a few times, he hit him with either a hatchet or a hammer on the head several times. Another man tried to intervene and stop it and he was stabbed a couple times in the chest,” the witness said.
The witnessed said a woman who knows the alleged attacker then chased him down the street.
“He proceeded to beat her with a hammer and stomped on her head,” said the witness. “I’m numb right now. I still can’t believe it. I can’t believe it happened like that.”
The witness said he doesn’t know what might have motivated the attack. He said police evacuated the surrounding area including the encampment.