The City of Kingston says the temporary closure of the Integrated Care Hub on Montreal Street is being extended in order to review safety improvements at the site, following last week's fatal attack nearby. Two men were killed and a woman was seriously injured during a violent incident in the area of a homeless encampment at Belle Park and Montreal Street near the care hub on Sept. 12.
A 47-year-old man is facing murder charges. In the immediate aftermath of the violence, the Integrated Care Hub said it would be closing its doors temporarily to assist police in their investigation into the double homicide. Mayor Bryan Paterson, meanwhile, called for the immediate closure of the care hub and for the Belle Park encampment to be dismantled.
The City of Kingston said Wednesday that the police investigation at the scene has completed, but perimeter fencing around the Belle Park encampment and the police presence in the area will remain and access to the Integrated Care Hub will remain closed. "Community agencies and the City recognize that substantive operational changes need to be made to 661 Montreal St. to preserve the safety of the individuals accessing services, site staff, and the public.
It is important we take appropriate time to assess required changes to ensure service improvements and enhanced safety for all," a news release said. "The additional closure time will be used to review operations and safety/security matters of the building and area. Partners and City staff .