Ottawa Shooting Update – Barricaded Man at East Block on Parliament Hill
Ottawa Police are currently engaged in a standoff with an individual barricaded inside the East Block on Parliament Hill. Authorities responded to the situation early Saturday afternoon, and as of now, there have been no reports of injuries.
The area has been evacuated as a precautionary measure, and police are continuing to deal with the individual inside the building. The East Block, which houses offices for Members of Parliament and the Parliamentary Library, has been under lockdown since the incident was reported.
The lockdown was officially declared by the Parliamentary Protective Service (PPS), which is responsible for securing the parliamentary precinct. In an official communication sent to staffers, the PPS instructed everyone within the building at 111 Wellington Street to seek shelter immediately.
Staff were advised to move into the nearest room, lock all doors, and stay hidden until further notice. The lockdown, although alarming, has been managed with a focus on safety and securing the perimeter.
Ottawa Police, alongside the PPS, have cordoned off the area, and surrounding streets have been cleared to ensure that no one is within the danger zone. Authorities are asking the public to avoid the area and refrain from speculating or sharing unverified information that could contribute to confusion or panic.