The historic East Block on Parliament Hill in Ottawa was placed under lockdown Saturday afternoon following a tense and ongoing situation involving a barricaded man, prompting a swift and coordinated response from local and federal law enforcement agencies. The Ottawa Police Service (OPS), in partnership with the Parliamentary Protective Service (PPS), responded to the incident just before 3 p.m. Eastern Time.
Although no injuries have been reported, the area remains under tight security, with a significant police presence and road closures extending around the heart of the Canadian capital.
Table of Contents
Barricaded Individual Prompts Lockdown at Parliament’s East Block
Situation Unfolds at 111 Wellington Street
At approximately 2:50 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025, the Parliamentary Protective Service issued an emergency alert indicating that a barricaded man had been reported inside the East Block, located at 111 Wellington Street. The building, part of the historic Parliament Hill complex, houses offices for senators and their staff.
Police quickly arrived on the scene and evacuated the East Block. While the motive of the individual has not been publicly disclosed, law enforcement continues to engage with the person involved. Officials described the situation as “ongoing” and asked the public to remain clear of the area.
Heightened Security Measures Implemented Immediately
Police Advise Staff and Public to Shelter or Avoid Area
In their alert to those on Parliament Hill, the Parliamentary Protective Service advised staff members to seek shelter in the nearest room, lock doors, and remain hidden until further instructions are given. Those not currently in the area were explicitly told to stay away and avoid all travel to lockdown zones.
The Ottawa Police Service reinforced that message on social media, confirming the lockdown and urging the public to follow directions from officers. Roads surrounding the Hill, including Wellington Street between Bank Street and Sussex Drive, were immediately shut down to traffic and pedestrians.
Parliament Dissolved Amid Federal Election
Minimal Activity on Hill at Time of Incident
The incident comes at a time when Parliament is dissolved due to the ongoing federal election campaign, meaning legislative activity is currently on pause. However, staff offices, including those in the East Block, still house administrative and political support teams.
While this has likely reduced the number of people affected by the lockdown, it hasn’t stopped concerns about security breaches at a key federal site.
Possible Bomb Squad Involvement, Heavy Police Presence
Reports Indicate Specialized Units on Scene
According to on-the-ground reports from The National Post and CBC, at least a dozen police and security vehicles surrounded the East Block, including units from the Parliamentary Protective Service, Ottawa Police, and potentially a bomb disposal squad.
As of late Saturday afternoon, the area remains sealed off to all personnel, including pass holders. Police have not confirmed whether explosives are involved, but the increased law enforcement presence suggests that authorities are treating the matter with utmost seriousness.
What We Know So Far: A Timeline of Events
- Before 3 p.m. ET – Ottawa Police receive reports of a barricaded man inside the East Block of Parliament Hill
- Around 3 p.m. ET – East Block evacuated, lockdown initiated by the PPS
- 4:21 p.m. ET – CBC reports heavy police presence, no injuries, ongoing negotiations with the individual
- 4:50 p.m. ET – Ottawa Police issue public advisory via social media, urging people to stay away
- 5:00 p.m. ET and beyond – Road closures enforced, including Wellington Street from Bank to Sussex
Ongoing Investigation: Public Urged to Remain Alert
First Responders to Provide Further Instructions
As of Saturday evening, the lockdown and security perimeter remain in place. Authorities are continuing to negotiate with the individual and assess any additional threats. The PPS and OPS will release more details as the situation develops.
In the meantime, residents and visitors in downtown Ottawa are advised to stay informed via official sources and avoid the restricted area until police have declared it safe.
Final Thoughts: A Stark Reminder of Parliament Hill’s Security Risks
This incident on Parliament Hill is a clear reminder of the security vulnerabilities present even in highly protected areas of government. While no one has been harmed, the situation remains fluid, and the response from law enforcement reflects the seriousness of any threat posed to Canada’s federal institutions.