SIU, police investigate deaths of two men in Burlington home

The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) and Halton police are investigating the deaths of two men following a “disturbance” in a home in Burlington overnight Tuesday.

Halton police were called around 12:30 a.m. to a home on Cornerstone Drive in the neighbourhood of Alton Village near Appleby Line and Dundas Street.

“911 calls were placed but there wasn’t anyone on the other line. I think there were some voices that were heard on the other line. The call I think was put through as unknown trouble and then police responded. So I’m not sure that they kind of knew exactly what they were getting into when they arrived,” said Kristy Denette, SIU spokesperson.

The SIU says a 28-year-old man fled upstairs when officers arrived. There was a brief interaction between them as police were attempting to make an arrest, during which police used a taser. The man was then found with a self-inflicted stab wound. Paramedics were called but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities say it’s unclear at this point if the man was tasered by police but the police watch dog is involved because the man died after his interaction with officers.

The SIU also confirmed that another man believed to be in his 50s was found dead in the home. A woman around the same age was taken to hospital with non-serious injuries and has since been released. Halton police are investigating that man’s death.

Halton police would not confirm the identities of the victims, however, several neighbours tell CHCH News that the two deceased are Mauro Gennaccaro and his son Luciano Gennaccaro.

READ MORE: Human remains found in May Haldimand County fire, police appeal to public

“I heard some arguing and commotion around 12:30, but that was a regular occurrence so we didn’t really think anything of it,” said a neighbour.

Neighbours tell CHCH News that for years they have heard screaming matches coming from inside of the home so loud that sometimes those living in the neighbourhood would record the fights.

Behind closed doors, neighbours say Mauro Gennaccaro was struggling with his son Luciano.

“A few years ago the son moved in, and from what I gathered speaking with the husband it was the son that was constantly physically attacking him, and he was defending himself constantly,” said a neighbour.

The SIU could not confirm whether the incident was a murder-suicide but they did say that an “edged weapon” was discovered in the home.

Halton police have directed all inquiries to the SIU and say there is “no known risk to public safety.”

The SIU is urging anyone who may have information about the investigation, including video or photos, to contact the lead investigator at 800-787-8529 or via its website.

Its officers and Halton police will be in the neighbourhood today asking residents if they witnessed anything.

While authorities continue their investigation, the roads in the area have been reopened.

READ MORE: Human remains found in May Haldimand County fire, police appeal to public