Ottawa police are investigating a troubling pattern of violence in Little Italy, where a hardware store on Preston Street has been targeted in three separate shooting incidents so far in 2026.
What Happened
Investigators say the most recent incident occurred last week, when officers believe shots were fired directly at the store. It's the third such incident this year involving the same business, according to Ottawa police, though details on the earlier two shootings have not been fully released.
Police have not yet announced any arrests or identified a motive connecting the three incidents. The investigation remains active, and officers are asking anyone with information, including dash-cam or security footage from the area, to come forward.
An Ottawa Neighbourhood on Edge
Little Italy, centred around Preston Street, is one of Ottawa's most walkable and beloved neighbourhoods, known for its Italian restaurants, cafés, and small independent shops. Repeated gunfire aimed at a longstanding local business is unsettling news for residents and merchants who rely on the strip's reputation as a safe, family-friendly destination for dining and shopping.
For a hardware store that likely serves as a everyday fixture for people renovating homes or picking up supplies nearby, being caught in the crosshairs of what appears to be a targeted dispute raises real safety concerns for staff and customers alike. Nearby business owners and residents will be watching closely to see whether police can identify a suspect or motive before further incidents occur.
What's Next
Ottawa police have not indicated whether the shootings are linked to organized crime, a personal dispute, or another cause. As with many active investigations, specifics are being withheld while detectives work the case.
Residents in the area are encouraged to report any suspicious activity around Preston Street to Ottawa police, and anyone with information about the shootings can contact investigators directly or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
This is a developing story, and ottown will update as Ottawa police release more information.
Source: CBC Ottawa
