Death of man found with signs of trauma near Oshawa mosque deemed a homicide: police

Police in Oshawa say a man was pronounced dead shortly after being found with ‘obvious signs of trauma.’

A homicide investigation is underway into the death of a man who was found with “obvious signs of trauma” near a mosque in Oshawa on Thursday afternoon.

Durham police said they got an unknown trouble call in the area of Simcoe Street South and McGrigor Street, south of King Street West.

When officers arrived, they located the victim, who was pronounced dead shortly after.

The cause of death is not immediately known. Police said investigators are working diligently to determine the circumstances of the death.

“We are aware of the proximity of this incident to the nearby mosque. Determining whether there is any connection between the location and this tragic event will form part of the ongoing investigation,” police said in a social media post.

“We understand that this incident has had a significant impact on members of the Muslim community and the broader public. Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family, friends, and all those affected.”

Police added that they are in close contact with the leaders of the Oshawa Islamic Centre and community members “to ensure the investigation is conducted with sensitivity, respect, and transparency.”