Conflict between Neighbors Results in 2 Fatalities, 2 Wounded in Stratford, Ontario

An ongoing “neighbour dispute” culminated in a quadruple shooting in Stratford, Ont., on Aug. 1, resulting in two serious injuries and two fatalities, including the suspected shooter.

At 10:45 p.m., multiple 911 calls reported gunshots in the area of Bradshaw Drive and McCarthy Road West in the city of 31,000 residents.

Responding to the calls, the Stratford Police Service found four gunshot victims. Two individuals succumbed to their injuries, while two others were taken to Victoria Hospital in London.

One of the hospitalized victims is in critical condition, while the other is undergoing treatment for a severe injury, according to a police press release.

One of the deceased victims was first taken to Stratford General Hospital before being pronounced dead.

Following an investigation, police allege that Ricky Bilcke, 31, shot three victims during an ongoing neighbour dispute before taking his own life.

Bilcke allegedly fired shots with a high-powered rifle from across the road, fatally hitting Jonathan Bennett, 36, before using a shotgun to shoot David Tokley, 43, who is currently in critical condition, and Stephanie Irvine, who was shot outside her residence.

“The shooter fired several shots during the attack before turning the gun on himself,” the release stated.

Part of the area will be closed as investigators continue their work on Aug. 2, with authorities seeking witnesses and surveillance footage from nearby residents.

Police are urging individuals with videos of the incident to remove them out of respect for the victims and those affected, and to submit any footage to the authorities online.

Stratford is situated approximately 150 kilometers west of Toronto.