A Fatal Stabbing Near Uplands Drive
Ottawa police say a woman was fatally stabbed at a park near Uplands and Paul Anka drives on a Thursday at around 11:25 a.m. The victim, 36-year-old Brkti Berhe, was a mother of four, and two of her children were with her in the park at the time of the attack.
Suspect Arrested on Highway 417
Fsha Tekhle, 36, of Montreal, has been charged with first-degree murder in Berhe's killing. Ottawa police say Tekhle fled the scene in a vehicle and was arrested on Highway 417 outside the city, near the Casselman exit, Exit 66, a stretch of road many Ottawa residents drive regularly on trips east toward Montreal.
Investigators allege Tekhle had a domestic relationship with a family member of the victim. Police have not released further details about how the two knew each other or the exact nature of that connection, and no additional charges have been announced.
Police Call the Killing a Femicide
Ottawa police described Berhe's killing as a femicide. "This devastating event is a femicide. We take these matters very seriously and our hearts go out to the family at this time," the force said in a statement.
Ottawa's deputy police chief, Trish Ferguson, elaborated on what that designation means, saying a femicide is defined by the force as "a misogynist killing of women and girls because of their gender, overwhelmingly committed by men." Her comments frame the case as part of a pattern police are drawing public attention to, rather than an isolated, unrelated act of violence.
What It Means for Ottawa Residents
For families near Uplands and Paul Anka drives, and for anyone who uses that park, the killing has understandably raised questions about safety in local green spaces. At the same time, police have been clear that the case centres on an alleged domestic connection between the accused and the victim's family, not a random act against a stranger.
Tekhle remains charged with first-degree murder. No court date has been confirmed in information released so far, and Ottawa police have not indicated whether the investigation could lead to further charges.
Sources: Global News, Canadian Press (via rdnewsnow.com)
