In a disturbing development that has rattled our community, the man accused in last month’s femicide case now faces additional charges following a violent incident at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre.
Hassan Hamka, 27, appeared in court Tuesday via video link to face new allegations of aggravated assault and weapons possession. According to Ottawa Police, Hamka allegedly stabbed another patient at the mental health facility on Sunday evening.
The victim, whose identity remains protected, suffered serious injuries but is expected to recover, police sources confirmed.
This incident comes while Hamka was already in custody, undergoing a court-ordered mental health assessment related to charges in the death of 25-year-old Bita Nouri. Her body was discovered in an Alta Vista apartment on February 23rd after what police described as a domestic homicide.
“The timing of this new incident raises serious questions about security protocols within forensic mental health units,” said Sunny Marriner, executive director of the Ottawa Rape Crisis Centre. “When someone is in custody for violent offenses, particularly gender-based violence, additional safeguards must be in place.”
The Royal Ottawa Health Care Group declined specific comment on the incident, citing patient confidentiality, but issued a statement confirming they’re “cooperating fully with the ongoing police investigation while conducting an internal review of all safety procedures.”
Court records show Hamka had been transferred to the Royal Ottawa for a 30-day assessment to determine fitness to stand trial on the initial second-degree murder charge. This assessment period, standard in cases involving potential mental health factors, was scheduled to conclude next week.
Dr. Camille Quenneville, CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Ontario Division, cautions against drawing broad conclusions about mental health and violence. “It’s important that isolated incidents don’t further stigmatize mental illness. The vast majority of people with mental health challenges are not violent.”
However, advocates for women’s safety express growing concern about the intersection of mental health, justice, and protecting potential victims.
“This case highlights critical gaps in our systems,” said Julie Lalonde, an Ottawa-based women’s rights advocate. “Whether it’s community supports before violence occurs or secure management after charges are laid, we need to examine every level of intervention.”
Ottawa Police Chief Eric Stubbs addressed media briefly Tuesday, stating: “This investigation remains active, with detectives from both the homicide unit and assault squad coordinating their efforts.”
For community members following this case, it represents a troubling reminder of the complex challenges facing our mental health, justice, and social support networks.
The accused returns to court next Monday when both cases will be addressed. If found fit to stand trial, Hamka will face a preliminary hearing later this year.
Courthouse sources indicate the Crown will likely oppose any future bail applications given the new allegations of violence while in custody.
As our community processes these events, support remains available through crisis lines including the Distress Centre of Ottawa at 613-238-3311 and the Ottawa Victim Services at 613-238-2762.
