A doctor has been charged with first-degree murder as police investigate multiple suspicious deaths at a hospital located between Ottawa and Montreal, CBC News has learned.
Ontario Provincial Police were called to the Hawkesbury and District General Hospital on Thursday evening, police said in a news release.
At a court appearance on Friday, Brian Nadler, 35, who lives in Dollard-Des-Ormeaux, Que., was charged with one count of first-degree murder.
“Dr. Nadler maintains his innocence and the charges will be rigorously defended,” Ottawa defence lawyer Alan Brass told CBC News.
His next court appearance is scheduled for April 6.
Nadler has been licensed in Ontario since Feb. 4, 2020. He graduated from Montreal’s McGill University in 2010.
Doctor body to look into ‘disturbing’ case
Police didn’t say how long the investigation has been going on or how many deaths are being investigated.
They said there is no risk to public safety or the “routine activity” at the hospital.
The hospital responded to an email from CBC saying it’s declining comment. It’s also dealing with two active COVID-19 outbreaks.
WATCH | Hawkesbury’s mayor urges calm after OPP arrest hospital doctor
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Paula Assaly, mayor of Hawkesbury, says the Hawkesbury and District General Hospital remains open as provincial police investigate several suspicious deaths there. Police have charged a doctor with one count of first-degree murder. 0:30
The Ontario College of Physicians and Surgeons, which regulates and investigates doctors, said in a statement it will immediately look into “these extraordinarily disturbing allegations.”
Mayor Paula Assaly asked people to remain calm and not be afraid of seeking care at Hawkesbury and District General Hospital.
She also said she didn’t know the accused.
