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Ottawa Family Seeks Immigration Help After Tragedy

November 7, 2025
Updated November 7, 2025 at 03:50 p.m.
3 min read
CityNews Toronto
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A sombre image of an Ottawa townhouse reflecting the site of a tragic incident affecting immigration processes.

A sombre image of an Ottawa townhouse reflecting the site of a tragic incident affecting immigration processes.

In a tragic incident at a townhouse in Ottawa, Darshani Ekanayake and her four children were killed by Febrio De-Zoysa, who has since been sentenced to life in prison. Survivors of this horrific event, including the children's father Dhanushka Wickramasinghe, are now battling immigration challenges. Despite his application for permanent residency on compassionate grounds being approved in principle nearly a year ago, there's been no progress since. His brother and father, who arrived in Canada to support him, are also in limbo regarding their own residency applications, while his brother's request to extend his temporary resident permit for work has been denied. Canada's immigration system may seem daunting, but understanding your options is key.

"Navigating immigration processes during times of crisis requires careful management and timely intervention."

Legal Perspective: This situation highlights the importance of understanding immigration procedures and the rights of applicants in Canada.

Key Takeaways

Family members face immigration delays after Ottawa tragedy

Permanent residency applications require proactive follow-up

Temporary resident permits can be challenging to extend

What This Means for Ontario Residents

For residents in Ontario, this situation underscores the complexities of the immigration process during times of personal crisis. The delay faced by Wickramasinghe and his family is not uncommon and highlights the need for individuals to be proactive and informed about their application status. In scenarios where applications seem stalled, it may be necessary to seek legal advice or government intervention. Additionally, this case draws attention to the challenges faced by temporary residents in securing extensions under uncertain circumstances, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support systems and timely responses from immigration authorities. If you're navigating similar challenges, knowing how to effectively manage your application can be essential. Accessing legal resources can provide you with the necessary guidance.

What You Should Do

1

Review your current immigration application status Urgent

Ensure there are no pending requests or missing documents

2

Contact immigration authorities for updates

Follow up on any delayed applications or decisions

3

Gather all necessary documents for your application Urgent

Ensure you have complete documentation ready

4

Seek legal advice for denied applications Urgent

Understand your options for appeal or reconsideration

5

Consider compassionate grounds for applications

Explore options for residency based on humanitarian concerns

Your Rights and Options

As an Ontario resident facing immigration issues, you have the right to legal representation and to seek clarity on your application status. If you find yourself in a similar situation, it is crucial to stay informed about your rights and options for appeal or reconsideration. Consulting with experienced immigration lawyers can help you understand the best course of action to take, ensuring your application is handled efficiently and with the attention it requires.

Common Questions Answered

How UL Lawyers Can Help

We understand that dealing with immigration challenges during difficult times can be overwhelming. At UL Lawyers, we are here to support you through each step of the immigration process, from understanding application statuses to navigating appeals and extensions. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal assistance tailored to your unique situation. Reach out to us for a free consultation to see how we can assist you in achieving the stability and security you need.

Facing immigration hurdles after a crisis? Contact us for a free consultation to explore your options.

Important Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified immigration lawyer to discuss your particular situation and options.