Community Mourns Beloved Senior After Homicide Near Oshawa Mosque

The city of Oshawa is in mourning following the tragic death of Ibrahim Bala, an 80-year-old man found with devastating injuries near the Islamic Centre of Oshawa on October 16, 2025.

Durham Regional Police have confirmed the case as Oshawa’s seventh homicide of the year and are actively searching for witnesses as the investigation continues. ​

Around 4:20 p.m. on October 16, police responded to a distress call reporting an injured male outside a residence near the mosque.

Officers arrived to find Bala with "obvious signs of trauma"; he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators are seeking anyone who witnessed suspicious activities between 2:30 p.m. and 4:20 p.m., the crucial window before Bala’s death. ​

Ibrahim Bala, a fixture of Oshawa’s Muslim community since the 1970s, is remembered as a gentle soul whose generosity touched the lives of many.

Bala frequently assisted newcomers, helping them settle and thrive in the city.

The news of his death has shocked those who knew him, and the loss has reverberated far beyond the mosque’s congregation. ​

Local leaders, faith organizations, and politicians have publicly expressed condolences.

Mayor Roy of Whitby acknowledged the investigation into Bala’s murder, while NDP MPP Jennifer French called the loss "a terrible shock" and praised Bala as a pillar of kindness in Oshawa.

Grief counselors have been made available to the community, and a vigil is being planned in Bala’s honor.

One painful question looms: was this homicide motivated by hate?

Police have not drawn conclusions, stating that "all potential motives" are under investigation, and no suspects have been identified yet.

The investigation has attracted nationwide and international coverage, with calls for justice from the Canadian Muslim community and beyond. ​

The Durham Regional Police Service urges anyone with information or surveillance footage from the vicinity of the mosque on October 16 to come forward.

As investigators work to uncover the truth, the Oshawa community remains united in grief and determination to honor Bala’s legacy of compassion.