The Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported this morning on Twitter that an armed man was detained on the grounds of Rideau Hall where Prime Minister Trudeau currently resides. The RCMP stated that at approximately 6:40 a.m. “an armed man was able to access the grounds … the prime minister and the governor general were not present at the moment of the incident.” They added that the man was arrested without any incident shortly afterwards, is currently in custody and is being interviewed. RCMP has declined to release his name at this time as criminal charges are pending.
Media reports state that a government spokesperson later confirmed that PM Trudeau, who has been residing at Rideau Cottage on the grounds during renovations to his official residence at 24 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, was not at home at the time. Trudeau and his family were at his Harrington cottage north-west of Ottawa where they celebrated Canada Day. Governor General Julie Payette, who lives in Rideau Hall, was also absent at the time.
Further reports say the police investigation is focused on dark pickup truck (pictured above) on the grounds and that what appears to be debris from bent wrought-iron gates is scattered on the pathway just inside one of the visitor gates.
Photos cbc.ca and 660citynews on Twitter