A police vehicle stood outside a residence on Kichi Mikan Street in Kitigan Zibi on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, as officers investigated the deaths of a father and his two children. CTV
A quiet community in western Quebec is mourning after a father and his two children were found dead early Wednesday morning in what police believe was a murder-suicide.
Emergency crews responded to a home on Kichi Mikan Street in Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg at around 2:15 a.m. When officers arrived, they discovered one person dead at the scene. Paramedics rushed two others to hospital, where doctors later pronounced them dead.
Police Confirm Early Findings
The Sûreté du Québec is leading the investigation and shared preliminary details later in the day.
“At this stage of the investigation, we can confirm that a 41-year-old father allegedly killed his two children, aged 10 and 12, before taking his own life,” Sgt. Nancy Fournier said in an email.
“According to the evidence gathered so far, the events appear to have been carried out with a firearm.”
Police continue to gather evidence and work alongside the Kitigan Zibi Police Service.
Community in Shock
Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Chief Jean-Guy Whiteduck identified the father as Randy Tolley. He said the news has deeply shaken the community.
“He lived outside for a period of time also, but I don’t know a lot about his personal life. I would be in a difficult position to really make any comment,” Whiteduck said. “I know he had some issues with the law in the past.”
The chief expressed sorrow for the children and their lost futures.
“We are deeply hurt,” Whiteduck said. “The fact that two children with their life ahead of them are lost. There was not much we could do to help because we were not signalled. There was no signal put out that there was a problem, that there was a social issue that led to this unfortunate incident.”
The Kitigan Zibi Police Service confirmed in a Facebook statement that all three victims were members of the community. Officers asked people to keep the community in their prayers.
Leaders Offer Condolences
The tragedy drew reactions from provincial and federal leaders.
Prime Minister Mark Carney offered his condolences in a statement.
“Our prayers are with the victims and all those who loved them,” Carney said.
“Our government officials are in contact with local authorities to ensure the people of the community receive every support we can provide following this heartbreaking loss.”
Gatineau MP and Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon also spoke about the impact on the tight-knit community.
“It’s just an unbelievable thing to wake up to. I know that community very well,” MacKinnon said. “My thoughts go out to the chief, all the members of that community. To lose two children like that is just an unbelievable thing.”
Quebec Premier François Legault said he felt “deeply shaken” by the deaths.
“To the Anishinaabe Nation, to the families and loved ones of the victims, I offer my most heartfelt thoughts during these difficult times,” Legault wrote.
Support for Residents
Chief Whiteduck said community leaders are making counselling and support services available to those struggling with the news.
“The community is there and we’re really encouraging the community to stand together, stand strong and support each other in these difficult times,” he said.
Kitigan Zibi sits about 148 kilometres north of downtown Ottawa. Residents say the loss has left many grieving and searching for answers.
Police continue their investigation.
