Kingston, Ontario – Andre Wareham, a 47-year-old Kingston resident, has been arrested and charged in connection with the deadly stabbings that took place on Montreal Street. Wareham now faces two counts of second-degree murder and one count of attempted murder following the violent events on Thursday, September 12, 2024.
The tragic incident resulted in the deaths of John Hood, 41, and Taylor Wilkinson, 38, both of whom were identified by Kingston Police. A third victim, who remains hospitalized in critical condition, has not been publicly identified to protect their privacy.
The stabbings led to a tense standoff between police and Wareham that lasted for hours. The situation came to an end just before 5 p.m. on Thursday. In the aftermath, the Integrated Care Hub (ICH) was closed, and people living in the nearby encampment were evacuated. Authorities are treating the entire area as an active crime scene as the investigation continues.
Wareham appeared in court today, Friday, September 13, 2024, for his bail hearing, which began at 1:20 p.m. Police have confirmed that he was not residing in the encampment near the ICH, despite earlier speculation from some city officials.
Following the arrest, Mayor Bryan Paterson released a statement calling for the closure of the ICH, consumption treatment services (CTS), and the campsite, a move that has sparked public debate.
Several Kingston residents have shared their thoughts on social media regarding the tragic incident and the response from city officials.
Kelly McNally McGarry commented, "The mayor should resign for his reactionary comments in my opinion."
Carol Notman added, "So sad! The suspect didn’t even live in the encampment, yet Mayor Paterson wants to get rid of the encampment?"
Stephanie Lyon expressed her concerns, writing, "The fact that this guy has done this before but not been charged is scary enough sadly."
Other commenters offered their condolences to the families affected by the tragedy. Annette Carde wrote, "So sad my condolences to each family.. and thanks to our police service!"
Marnie Cranston shared, "Tragic on so many levels," while Steve Mercer echoed the sentiment, saying, "It’s a tragedy on so many levels…by the grace of God go I."
As the community mourns the loss of two lives, authorities are continuing their investigation into the full circumstances surrounding the violent attacks.