On Monday, June 2, 2025, a tragic femicide occurred in Ottawa’s south end at a residence on Carousel Crescent in the Emerald Woods-Sawmill Creek neighborhood. Tracy Duncan, a 54-year-old woman, was fatally attacked, prompting the Ottawa Police Service to arrest Stephen Doane, 57, who faces second-degree murder charges. This marks the fourth femicide in Ottawa this year, underscoring ongoing concerns about gender-based violence in the city. Authorities are actively investigating the case and seeking public assistance, while continuing efforts to combat intimate partner violence through specialized initiatives.
Details of the Incident
On the evening of June 2, 2025, Ottawa Police responded to a distress call from a residence on Carousel Crescent in the Emerald Woods-Sawmill Creek neighborhood. Upon arrival, officers discovered Tracy Duncan suffering from fatal injuries consistent with an assault. Despite attempts to provide medical assistance, Duncan was pronounced dead at the scene.
Stephen Doane, a 57-year-old man known to the victim, was promptly apprehended by police and taken into custody without incident. Investigators have since laid charges of second-degree murder against Doane. The motive behind the attack remains under investigation, with authorities exploring any prior history of domestic conflict between the parties involved.
Context and Significance
This incident represents the fourth femicide case recorded in Ottawa in 2025, reflecting a troubling trend of gender-based violence within the city. Femicide, defined as the killing of a woman due to her gender, continues to be a critical public safety and social issue. Ottawa Police Service officials have reiterated their commitment to addressing violence against women through targeted law enforcement actions and community partnerships.
Police and Community Response
Ottawa Police Chief has called this event “a devastating reminder of the persistence of intimate partner violence” and emphasized the importance of public cooperation in ongoing investigations. Authorities have appealed to anyone with information related to the case or potential similar incidents to come forward confidentially.
Efforts to combat such tragedies include preventive programs, increased support services for victims, and specialized training for police officers to recognize and respond effectively to signs of domestic abuse. Community organizations collaborating with law enforcement provide resources aimed at education, shelter, and counseling to prevent further violence.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The Ottawa Police Service continues to gather evidence to support the prosecution of Stephen Doane. The Crown prosecutor’s office will review the case details as proceedings move forward. Given the severity of second-degree murder charges, court appearances and potential trial dates will be arranged in the coming weeks.
Authorities also indicate that this investigation remains open and evolving, with updates to be issued as additional facts emerge. Public safety remains a priority as the city seeks to address and reduce instances of violence against women.
In summary, the tragic death of Tracy Duncan in Ottawa’s Emerald Woods-Sawmill Creek neighborhood highlights the ongoing challenge of addressing femicide and intimate partner violence in the city. With the suspect, Stephen Doane, facing serious charges, authorities are focused on a thorough investigation and prosecution while calling on the community to assist in preventing further violence. Continued collaboration between law enforcement, community organizations, and support services remains critical to advancing safety and justice for victims of gender-based violence in Ottawa.
