Kingston police release double murder scene, detention centre remains closed – Kingston News

Kingston Police have cleared the area they were denied access to during the investigation into a double homicide in the area of ​​661 Montreal Street. The security fence and police presence will remain in place and the Integrated Care Hub (ICH) at that address will remain closed, according to the City of Kingston.

The attacks – two of which were fatal – occurred on Thursday, September 12, 2024, and Kingston Police secured the scene at the time. According to a city press release, the investigation is now complete and the scene has been released to the City of Kingston and related agencies that provide services at ICH.

“We remain deeply saddened and concerned for everyone affected,” the city said.

Kingston Police, the City of Kingston, Addiction and Mental Health Services of Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington (AMHS-KFLA), and Trellis HIV and Community Services have not responded to multiple requests for interviews and information regarding next steps regarding the ICH, the camp, and the ongoing investigation. While police have responded to requests from Kingston residents, no further details have been released regarding the investigation – including any updates on the status of the victim, who was still in hospital at the last police update.

According to a press release from the City of Kingston on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, municipal authorities and the city are aware that “significant operational changes are required at 661 Montreal St. to ensure the safety of persons using the services, site personnel and the public.”

“It is important that we take sufficient time to review the necessary changes so that we can ensure service improvements and greater safety for everyone,” the city said.

“The additional closure time will be used to review the operations and safety issues of the building and area. City partners and staff are committed to improving safety for everyone in this area. ICH’s services are critical to supporting the most vulnerable in our community and it will reopen and do so safely. More information and guidance will be provided once a date is confirmed.”

In the coming days, the city and its partners will provide coordinated access to personal belongings for people who were housed in the encampment, the release said. In the meantime, partners will be available to assist in this process.

During this indefinite extended closure, community agencies are offering street assistance and support for displaced residents. AMHS-KFLA crisis hotlines are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 613-544-4229 or toll-free at 1-866-616-6005. Additional support is available in the community, as reported in Kingstonist’s previous reporting here.

According to the press release, Addiction and Mental Health Services, Kingston Community Health Centres, Kingston Police and the City of Kingston remain committed to keeping the community updated on the implementation of measures to improve neighbourhood safety. None of the organisations have commented on when ICH services will resume or if/when people will be allowed to return to the camp.

The City said further updates will be provided as soon as possible. In response to requests to speak with someone about the information announced today (just before 5 p.m.), the City of Kingston received the following response.

“The City, along with other agencies and partners involved, intends to release a joint message at a later date. Further updates will be provided as soon as possible. At this time, the City of Kingston will not be giving media interviews,” the city said in an email to Kingstonist.

The City of Kingston, Kingston Police Department and AMHS-KFLA all issued the same press release at the same time, suggesting that this message is a concerted effort.

Kingstonist will continue to provide updated reports on this matter as new information becomes available.