OTTAWA, Ontario (AP) — A tense standoff unfolded at the Canadian Parliament on Saturday, April 5, 2025, as a man barricaded himself inside the East Block, prompting a significant police response that lasted for hours. The incident began just before 3 p.m. when the individual gained unauthorized access to the historic building, which houses the offices of senators and their staff.
In response to the situation, the Parliamentary Protective Service issued an emergency alert around 2:45 p.m., urging anyone inside the East Block to “seek shelter in the nearest room, close and lock all doors, and hide.” This warning was soon echoed to staff in the Prime Minister’s Office and the Privy Council Office across the street, as police cordoned off the area and advised the public to stay clear.
Inspector Mark Bouwmeester of the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) confirmed that the circumstances surrounding the incident were considered suspicious but provided few details about the suspect or their intentions. “We’re currently in contact with the individual, and our priority is to resolve this situation peacefully,” he stated during a press briefing. As of that time, there were no known injuries, and police believed the man was the only person inside the building.
Authorities deployed a robust security presence, including multiple tactical units, bomb-sniffing dogs, and bomb disposal robots, to manage the situation. Dozens of police vehicles surrounded the East Block, and a stretch of Wellington Street in front of the Parliamentary precinct was closed to traffic and pedestrians.
Approximately five hours into the standoff, police announced that the situation had come to a peaceful conclusion, with the suspect taken into custody without incident. However, the investigation into the man’s motives and actions was ongoing, and police did not disclose whether he was armed or had made any threats.
Throughout the afternoon, the lockdown created a palpable sense of urgency and concern in downtown Ottawa. Senator Patrick Brazeau took to social media to reassure residents, posting, “Stay safe Ottawa,” as the police operation unfolded. By the time the situation was resolved, many reporters had left the scene, though a few remained to capture the aftermath.
Even as the lockdown ended, the area remained heavily policed, with road closures still in effect. The East Block, steeped in history and once home to the offices of Canada’s first prime ministers, was largely unoccupied at the time due to the dissolution of Parliament for an upcoming federal election, which had been announced on March 23, 2025.
The incident highlighted the heightened security measures in place at government buildings, especially in the wake of recent global events that have led to increased scrutiny of public safety protocols. The rapid response by law enforcement demonstrated a commitment to ensuring the safety of both the staff and the public.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to provide further updates on the suspect's identity and the circumstances that led to this alarming event. For now, residents and officials alike are left reflecting on the day’s events and the importance of vigilance in maintaining security in such vital public spaces.
