A man was critically injured in an assault near the Rideau Centre in Ottawa just after 2 p.m. on a recent afternoon. The incident occurred at the intersection of Colonel By Drive and Rideau Street, raising immediate concerns among local residents and shoppers.

The victim sustained injuries that authorities described as consistent with blunt force trauma. Emergency crews were dispatched to the scene shortly after the assault was reported, arriving around 2:15 p.m. to provide medical assistance and secure the area.

As the investigation unfolds, Ottawa police have confirmed that one man is currently in custody in connection with the assault. However, no charges had been announced at the time of reporting, leaving many questions unanswered.

The police are actively seeking witnesses and any video footage that may shed light on the circumstances surrounding the attack. This appeal for information highlights the community’s role in assisting law enforcement during such critical incidents.

The Rideau Centre, a bustling shopping destination in downtown Ottawa, has previously been a site of various events and gatherings. This incident marks a troubling moment for the area, which has generally been regarded as safe and welcoming.

Local residents expressed shock and concern over the violence, with many taking to social media to voice their thoughts and offer support to the victim. The incident has sparked discussions about public safety and the need for increased vigilance in urban spaces.

Authorities have not yet released further details about the suspect or the motive behind the assault. As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, hoping for a swift resolution.

Details remain unconfirmed, but the ongoing police presence in the area indicates the seriousness of the situation. The Rideau Centre and its surroundings are expected to see increased patrols as a precautionary measure.

As the investigation develops, updates will be provided to keep the public informed about any significant findings or changes in the case.

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As Easter weekend unfolds, residents in Ottawa and Greater Sudbury are keenly aware of the grocery store hours, especially on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Most major grocery retailers, including Costco, will remain closed during these holidays, leaving many consumers scrambling for last-minute supplies.

In Ottawa, the Retail Business Holidays Act mandates that most retail businesses close on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. This means that while larger grocery chains will not be available, some smaller stores or those located in designated areas may still open their doors. For instance, RJ’s Market has announced it will be open on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., providing a vital service for those in need of groceries during this time.

Shoppers Drug Mart is another option for consumers, as it will operate from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Good Friday and Easter Monday, maintaining regular hours on Easter Sunday. This flexibility allows customers to access essential items, albeit with limited hours. However, it’s important to note that the Beer Store will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, returning to normal hours on the following Saturday and Monday.

In Greater Sudbury, the situation mirrors that of Ottawa, with major grocery stores like Costco also closing for the holidays. The restrictions imposed by Ontario’s Retail Business Holidays Act are clear, and they affect a wide range of retail businesses. While many consumers may be disappointed by the closures, they can still find some relief at smaller local markets.

As Easter weekend comes about two weeks after the start of spring this year, the timing adds a layer of urgency for those looking to celebrate with family gatherings or special meals. The limited availability of grocery stores may prompt some residents to plan ahead, ensuring they have the necessary supplies before the holiday closures take effect.

Despite the closures, the community response has been largely positive, with many expressing appreciation for the smaller stores that choose to remain open. RJ’s Market and Shoppers Drug Mart have received favorable reactions for their willingness to accommodate customers during this busy time. This highlights a growing trend where local businesses are stepping up to fill the gaps left by larger chains.

As the weekend progresses, shoppers are encouraged to check store hours before heading out. With details about specific openings and closures still being confirmed, it’s advisable to stay informed. This Easter weekend serves as a reminder of the importance of planning ahead, especially when it comes to grocery shopping.

In summary, while many grocery stores are closed today in Ottawa and Greater Sudbury, options do exist for those in need. As consumers adapt to the holiday schedule, the role of smaller markets becomes increasingly significant, providing essential services during a time when larger retailers are unavailable.

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As the Buffalo Sabres prepare to face off against the Ottawa Senators at the Canadian Tire Centre on April 2, 2026, the stakes couldn’t be higher for both teams. The puck is set to drop at 7:00 PM ET, and for Buffalo, this game represents a potential milestone: a chance to clinch their first playoff berth in 15 years.

The Sabres come into this matchup riding a wave of momentum, having won six straight games against the Senators and leading the season series 2-0. With 100 points, Buffalo sits second in the Eastern Conference, a testament to their strong performance this season. In contrast, the Senators find themselves in a precarious position, currently ninth in the Eastern Conference with 86 points and having lost three straight games.

Ottawa’s challenges are compounded by significant injuries, particularly on their defensive line. The team is missing five defensemen, including key players like Thomas Chabot and Jake Sanderson. This situation has left Ottawa’s blueline in shambles, which could be a critical factor in the game. As noted, “Ottawa’s blueline is in shambles with Thomas Chabot, Jake Sanderson, Nick Jensen, Dennis Gilbert and Carter Yakemchuk all sidelined.”

In contrast, Buffalo’s defensive unit has been performing well, with a team save percentage of .901, ranking sixth in the NHL. Linus Ullmark, the Sabres’ goaltender, has a goals-against average of 2.8, contributing to the team’s overall defensive strength. Meanwhile, Ottawa’s save percentage of .873 ranks dead last in the league, highlighting their struggles in net.

Tim Stutzle has been a standout player for the Senators, recording 75 points this season, but he will need more support from his teammates to overcome Buffalo’s formidable lineup. The Sabres’ offense, spearheaded by players like Tage Thompson, will look to capitalize on Ottawa’s defensive vulnerabilities.

As the game approaches, the pressure mounts for both teams. For Buffalo, the opportunity to end a lengthy playoff drought is tantalizingly close. “Buffalo can clinch its first playoff berth in 15 years with any type of win Thursday in Ottawa,” emphasizes the significance of this matchup.

With the current state of both teams, this game not only affects playoff standings but also the morale and future outlook for each franchise. Buffalo is poised to make a statement, while Ottawa must rally to salvage their season amidst adversity.

As fans gear up for this critical showdown, the outcome will undoubtedly have lasting implications for both the Sabres and the Senators. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute lineup changes, but the anticipation is palpable as the teams prepare to clash.

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In the early stages of the match, the Senators took the lead with a power-play goal, demonstrating their offensive capabilities. However, the Penguins quickly responded, with Rickard Rakell scoring two goals and providing an assist, showcasing his impact on the game. His performance was pivotal, as he helped the Penguins level the score after the Senators initially took the lead.

Ben Kindel became the hero of the night, scoring the decisive goal in the shootout. His ability to remain calm under pressure was evident as he executed a perfect shot that secured the win for Pittsburgh. “Ben Kindel scored the key goal in the shootout,” remarked sports analyst Lisa Wallace, highlighting the importance of his contribution to the team’s success.

Despite the loss, the Senators had their moments of brilliance. Drake Batherson scored two goals, further solidifying his status as a key player for Ottawa this season, with a total of 29 goals to his name. Tim Stützle also made headlines by reaching his 400th career point during this match, a milestone that reflects his growth and potential in the league.

The Penguins’ goaltender, Stuart Skinner, made 26 saves, while his counterpart, Linus Ullmark, was busy blocking 35 shots for the Senators. Their performances were crucial in keeping the game competitive, as both teams fought hard for every inch on the ice.

As the game progressed, the absence of Sidney Crosby became increasingly noticeable. He left the match after just one shift in the second period due to an undisclosed injury. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specifics of his injury, which raises concerns about his availability for upcoming games. The Penguins are currently sitting second in the Metropolitan Division with 88 points, while the Senators are just one point behind the New York Islanders for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

Looking ahead, the Penguins will need to navigate the challenges of the remaining games without their captain, while the Senators will aim to capitalize on their recent performances to secure a playoff position. The stakes are high as both teams push towards the end of the season, making every game critical in their respective pursuits.

In summary, the Penguins’ victory over the Senators was not just a testament to their skill but also a reflection of their ability to adapt in the face of adversity. As the season progresses, the implications of Crosby’s injury will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the Penguins’ playoff aspirations.

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Before the tragic incident, the community of Nepean, Ottawa, had a routine morning where crossing guards like Peter Clark ensured the safety of schoolchildren. Clark, a beloved figure in the area, was known for his dedication to his job and his interactions with the public. However, this sense of security was shattered on a fateful morning.

On the morning of the incident, around 8:20 a.m., Clark was performing his duties at the intersection of Cedarview Road and Kennevale Drive when he was struck by a pickup truck. The driver, later identified as 19-year-old Xzander Wright, fled the scene, leading to immediate outrage and concern within the community. The speed limit at the intersection was 40 km/h, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding the collision.

In the aftermath, Wright was charged with failing to stop after a fatal accident. He appeared in court via video, wearing a black sweater, and will remain in custody until his next court appearance on Friday. The incident has not only affected the families involved but has also resonated deeply within the community.

Peter Clark, in his 50s, was remembered fondly by those who knew him. Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe expressed his condolences, sharing that Clark enjoyed his work and the daily interactions it brought. Flags at all City of Ottawa facilities have been lowered to half-mast in honor of Clark, reflecting the community’s grief.

The tragic nature of this incident has led to an outpouring of support for crossing guards from school communities and politicians alike. Mark Carney, a prominent figure, stated, “My thoughts are with the family and friends of Peter Clark, a crossing guard and beloved member of our community in Nepean who was killed in a hit-and-run.”

This incident raises critical discussions about road safety and the responsibilities of drivers, especially in areas frequented by pedestrians and children. The community is left grappling with the loss of a cherished member while seeking justice for Clark.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the impact of this tragic event will likely reverberate throughout Ottawa, prompting calls for increased awareness and safety measures for crossing guards and pedestrians alike.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific circumstances leading up to the collision, but the community’s response underscores the profound loss felt by many.

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Before the tragic incident on March 24, 2026, Peter Clark was a well-respected school crossing guard in Barrhaven, Ottawa, known for his dedication to the safety of children and families. His commitment to the role earned him recognition from local residents and organizations alike, including the Ottawa Safety Council, which emphasized the essential nature of crossing guards in the community.

However, the situation took a devastating turn when Clark was struck by a pickup truck at approximately 8:20 a.m. at the intersection of Cedarview Road and Kennevale Drive. The driver fled the scene, prompting an immediate investigation by the Ottawa Police Service, which later arrested a 19-year-old man in connection with the hit-and-run.

Clark’s death has sent shockwaves through the community, with local leaders expressing their condolences and reflecting on the loss. Barrhaven West Councillor David Hill stated, “Peter died in the service of his community. My sincere condolences go out to Peter’s family, friends, his colleagues at the Ottawa Safety Council and the families that he knew and protected day in and out.”

The Ottawa mayor, Mark Sutcliffe, echoed these sentiments, saying, “The loss of Peter Clark is being felt deeply across our city. This should never have happened to someone who was working to keep children safe.” Such statements highlight the profound impact Clark had on the community and the tragic nature of his untimely death.

In a show of respect, flags at all City of Ottawa facilities will be lowered to half-mast until the day of Clark’s funeral. This gesture underscores the community’s mourning and the recognition of Clark’s service.

Investigators are currently searching for a dark-coloured Ford F-150 pickup truck believed to be involved in the incident, as the community grapples with the aftermath of this shocking event. The Ottawa Police Service has extended condolences to Clark’s family, friends, and colleagues, further emphasizing the community’s collective grief.

Experts from the Ottawa Safety Council have reiterated the critical role of crossing guards, stating, “Crossing guards are essential, caring, and dedicated members of our community, trained to keep children safe and supported in their daily journeys to school.” This incident raises important questions about pedestrian safety and the responsibilities of drivers in residential areas.

As the investigation continues, the community is left to reflect on the life of Peter Clark and the vital role he played in ensuring the safety of its children. His commitment to his duties and the kindness he showed to local residents will not be forgotten.

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The housing market in the United States has been under scrutiny as it grapples with a myriad of challenges, particularly in 2026. Prior to recent developments, expectations for the housing sector were cautiously optimistic, buoyed by low interest rates and a recovering economy. However, the landscape has shifted dramatically, with KB Home, one of the nation’s largest homebuilders, reporting a staggering 23% year-over-year decline in total revenue to $1.08 billion for the first quarter of 2026. This decline is indicative of broader issues affecting the market.

The decisive moment came when KB Home disclosed that its diluted earnings per share (EPS) plummeted by 65% to $0.52 in the same quarter. This alarming drop signals not just a company-specific issue but a potential systemic problem within the housing market. The average selling price (ASP) for KB Home also fell by 9.7% to $452,100, reflecting a significant downturn in buyer demand and market confidence.

Compounding these challenges, the Federal Reserve has maintained the benchmark federal funds rate at 3.50%–3.75%, while the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage has risen to approximately 6.50%. These interest rates, while not excessively high historically, are contributing to a climate of uncertainty for potential homebuyers, many of whom are now facing affordability hurdles. The housing market is further characterized by a ‘locked-in’ scarcity, with foreclosure rates hovering around 0.20%, suggesting that homeowners are reluctant to sell in a declining market.

In Ottawa, the situation is similarly precarious. The City of Ottawa’s staff has recommended waiving the inclusionary zoning requirement for affordable housing to zero, a move that has sparked debate among local policymakers and housing advocates. The proposed policy would set the maximum purchase price for a condominium unit at about $441,000, while the suggested monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment would be around $1,900. This shift raises questions about the city’s commitment to affordable housing amidst rising costs.

Experts like Coun. Jeff Leiper have pointed out that “the cost of building housing has gone up very significantly,” which complicates the already fragile state of the housing market. Kaite Burkholder Harris, another local advocate, emphasized that a mandatory requirement for affordable units is ineffective if developers are unable to build at all. She stated, “What it turns into is a developer not building, because they can’t make the bottom line work.” This sentiment underscores the tension between regulatory measures and market realities.

The introduction of legislative measures such as the “Housing for the 21st Century Act” and the “Make American Housing Affordable (MAHA) Act” in early 2026 reflects an urgent need for solutions to the housing crisis. However, the impact of these proposed bills on market prices remains unclear, leaving stakeholders in a state of uncertainty. Additionally, the future of inclusionary zoning in Ottawa is uncertain due to potential provincial policy changes, further complicating the landscape for affordable housing.

As the housing market continues to navigate these turbulent waters, the implications for both buyers and builders are profound. The fragility of the current recovery, as indicated by KB Home’s Q1 2026 earnings report, suggests that without significant intervention, the housing market may face prolonged challenges. Details remain unconfirmed regarding how these evolving policies will ultimately shape the market, but the stakes are undeniably high for all parties involved.

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The impending opening of History Ottawa on August 20, 2026, marks a significant milestone for the city’s cultural landscape. With a capacity of 2,000 seats, this new venue is poised to become a central hub for live music, hosting an estimated 150 events annually. The inaugural performance will feature The Wallflowers, setting the stage for a diverse lineup that includes acts like Kaleo, The Pretty Reckless, and Sabaton.

History Ottawa is not just another music venue; it represents a strategic expansion of the successful Toronto location that opened in 2021. The decision to establish a mid-size venue in Ottawa stems from a recognized gap in the local entertainment market, as expressed by Ali Shafaee, who emphasized the need for such a space to invigorate the ByWard Market area.

Bronwyn Campbell, who brings 11 years of experience as the general manager of the Commodore Ballroom, has been appointed to lead the History Ottawa team. “I’m thrilled to be leading the History Ottawa team,” she stated, reflecting the excitement surrounding this venture. Alongside her, Rob Feller will serve as the senior operations manager, bringing 12 years of experience in the live music industry to the role.

The venue is expected to create approximately 300 full- and part-time jobs, contributing to the local economy and enhancing the cultural fabric of the city. This development is anticipated to play a crucial role in revitalizing Ottawa’s entertainment district, which has long been in need of a fresh and dynamic space for music lovers.

As the opening date approaches, the community eagerly awaits the impact of History Ottawa on the local music scene. The venue’s commitment to hosting a variety of performances is likely to attract a diverse audience, fostering a vibrant atmosphere for both artists and fans alike. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding the full lineup and additional features of the venue.

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What happens when a playoff race heats up and two teams are vying for crucial points? In the recent clash between the New York Islanders and the Ottawa Senators, the answer was a dramatic finish that left fans on the edge of their seats. Brady Tkachuk scored with just 11 seconds remaining, leading the Senators to a 3-2 victory over the Islanders on March 19, 2026, in Ottawa.

The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the Islanders initially taking the lead. Matthew Schaefer opened the scoring early in the second period, showcasing his talent as he became the second 18-year-old defenseman in NHL history to reach 50 points in a season, joining the ranks of Phil Housley. However, the Senators responded with a short-handed goal from Shane Pinto, tying the game at 1.

As the game progressed, Brayden Schenn put the Islanders back in front with a goal that gave them a 2-1 lead in the third period. Yet, the Senators were not to be outdone. Warren Foegele tied the game at 2, setting the stage for Tkachuk’s heroics. The Senators, despite being on a back-to-back schedule, demonstrated resilience and determination, traits that are crucial in the final stretch of the season.

James Reimer, the Senators’ goaltender, made 19 saves, while Ilya Sorokin of the Islanders stopped 23 shots. The performance from both goalies was commendable, but it was Tkachuk’s late-game awareness that ultimately decided the match. Tkachuk controlled a loose puck in the crease and squeezed it past Sorokin, a moment that will be remembered by Senators fans.

This victory was not just a win; it had significant implications for the playoff race. The Islanders, after this loss, dropped out of a playoff position in the Eastern Conference, while the Senators closed the gap, now just four points behind the Islanders in the standings. The stakes were high, and the tension palpable, as both teams fought for their postseason lives.

Post-game reactions reflected the intensity of the match. One frustrated Islanders player remarked, “This one suuuucks,” highlighting the disappointment of a game that slipped away at the last moment. Another noted, “Just an extremely frustrating end to a high-pressure game, and it felt like the Islanders barely matched the intensity of a team playing the second half of a back to back.” In contrast, Senators fans celebrated a much-needed victory, with one commentator stating, “The Senators took care of business tonight (in regulation!!!), and Brady played like a captain in securing a much-needed two points in the playoff race.”

Looking ahead, the Islanders will face the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday night, while the Senators will host the Toronto Maple Leafs on the same day. Both teams will be eager to build on their respective performances, with the Islanders hoping to regain their playoff position and the Senators looking to continue their momentum. As the season progresses, every game becomes crucial, and the intensity is only expected to rise.

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