Ottawa police identify 17-year-old victim in arson-related homicide investigation

Police have identified Hussein Hamam, 17, as the victim of a fatal fire in Ottawa on Wednesday.

Ottawa police say officers responded to a “suspicious” fire on July 19 just after midnight.

After the fire was extinguished, they found a body in the house on Booth Street in the city’s downtown area.

Ottawa police’s homicide unit is leading the investigation in co-ordination with the arson unit.

They are asking the public to call the homicide unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 5493, with any information they may have.

Police say there was also extensive property damage due to the fire.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 21, 2023.