Crossbow bolt lodged in Orléans home was aimed at coyote, police find
Ottawa police traced a crossbow bolt that struck a home on Plainhill Drive in early June to a person hunting a nearby coyote, the projectile having ricocheted off pavement.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
A crossbow bolt that lodged in the back of an Orléans home in early June was fired at a coyote by a person walking nearby, Ottawa police determined after a month-long investigation.
Officers responded to a home on Plainhill Drive after the homeowner discovered the weapon stuck in their house. The incident occurred overnight between June 7 and 8. Using neighbourhood canvasses, surveillance camera footage, interviews, and coordination with the Ministry of Natural Resources, police identified the person responsible.
On July 17, the person came to the east district station and admitted to firing the crossbow at a coyote while walking along a nearby path. The projectile missed the animal, ricocheted off the pavement, and landed in the home. A crossbow bolt is heavier and stiffer than a traditional arrow.
Officials said the person was diverted away from charges through an alternate accountability process that imposes conditions rather than prosecution.
At a glance
Where did a crossbow bolt strike a home in Orléans?
A crossbow bolt lodged in the back of a home on Plainhill Drive in Ottawa.
What happened to the person who fired the crossbow?
On July 17, 2026, the person admitted to firing the crossbow at a coyote and was diverted from charges through an alternate accountability process that imposes conditions rather than prosecution.
