SHOOTING INVESTIGATION
Suspect male in custody

LONDON, ON (May 4, 2026) – Members of the London Police Service Major Crime Section have charged a male in relation to a shooting that occurred near the downtown core early last month.

On Saturday, April 4, 2026, shortly before 6:40 p.m., police responded to a report of a shooting in the area of Granville Street and Barrington Avenue. Officers located evidence that a firearm had been discharged.

A vehicle believed to be involved fled the area prior to police arrival. There were no reported injuries.

Investigators believed this was not a random incident. The investigation was reassigned to members of the London Police Service Major Crime Section and as a result, a suspect was identified.

On Thursday, April 30, 2026, the suspect male was arrested in Vienna by members of the Elgin County OPP, with the assistance of the Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement (ROPE) Squad, West Region OPP Emergency Response Team, Tactics and Rescue Unit, Canine Unit and Crisis Negotiators.

As a result of the investigation, Denis Lee Churchill, 39, of St. Thomas, has been charged with the following offences:

·       Discharge firearm with intent to wound/endanger life or prevent arrest;

·       Unauthorized possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm;

·       Possession loaded/unloaded regulated firearm;

·       Occupy motor vehicle with firearm;

·       Possess restricted or prohibited firearm knowingly not holding a licence;

·       Seven counts of possession of firearm or ammunition contrary to prohibition order; and

·       Breach.

The accused remains in custody and is expected to re-appear in London court today in relation to the charges.

Investigators continue to appeal to anyone who may have been in the area of Granville Street and Barrington Avenue at the time of the incident, or who may have dash-cam, residential, or business video surveillance that could assist with the investigation, to contact police.

The London Police Service recognizes that incidents involving gun violence can cause fear and concern within the community. We want to reassure residents that matters of this nature are taken extremely seriously. Through a coordinated and timely response, and with the assistance of our policing partners, a suspect has been arrested. This arrest represents an important step in our ongoing efforts to protect public safety, and there is no ongoing risk to the community related to this incident.

Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to call the London Police Service at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Information can also be sent in online anonymously to London Middlesex Crime Stoppers. 

For media inquiries, contact:

Media Relations Officer
C. 519-661-5410
Email. Media Officer

26-31689