Parliament Hill Lockdown: Man Barricades Inside East Block

Parliament Hill was placed under lockdown Saturday afternoon after a man barricaded himself inside the historic East Block building, prompting a major police response.

Parliamentary Protective Service officers secure the perimeter of Parliament Hill on Saturday. — *Photo by Blair Gable/Reuters*

The Ottawa Police Service confirmed the ongoing operation shortly before 5 p.m. ET, stating that officers, alongside the Parliamentary Protective Service (PPS), had secured the area. Authorities evacuated the East Block and warned the public to stay away.

“There is a large police presence in the area. East Block has been evacuated,” police shared on social media.

Suspicious Situation Still Unfolding

At a press briefing around 7:30 p.m., Ottawa police Inspector Mark Bouwmeester described the incident as “suspicious” but did not elaborate on the man’s motives.

“We’re currently in contact with the individual, and our priority is to resolve this peacefully,” he said.

Police believe the man is alone inside the building. There are no reported injuries at this time.

Officers have not confirmed if the man is armed or whether he made any threats. However, a robot was deployed as a precaution, and a large police truck entered the security zone to assist.

Expanded Exclusion Zone

Initially, police blocked Wellington Street in front of Parliament Hill. As the hours passed, the exclusion area widened—stretching back to Sparks Street to ensure public safety.

The PPS issued a warning urging people to stay clear of Parliament Hill and follow emergency instructions:

“If you are not in the immediate area, stay away until further notice. Do not travel to locations under lockdown.”

Building Largely Empty Due to Election

The East Block typically houses senators’ offices and staff, though activity is currently minimal as Parliament remains dissolved for the federal election. Still, the building holds historic significance—it once housed offices of Sir John A. Macdonald and Sir George-Étienne Cartier, which are now preserved as 19th-century recreations.

Situation Remains Fluid

As of Saturday evening, the incident was still ongoing, and police continued to monitor the area closely.

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