‘Huge impact’: Community mourns after parents, 2 young kids found dead inside rural Ontario home

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continue their investigation after a family of four was found dead at a home in rural southwestern Ontario this week.

Officers were called to the residence on County Road 13 in the community of Harrow, south of Windsor, around 1:30 p.m. on Thursday and found the bodies of a mother, father and two young children.

Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy says the loss has had a “huge impact” on the community, and there are mounting questions about what led to the deaths.

Bondy added her phone had been “active all day” with people offering supports and services, and plans are in the works for a local vigil.

Police have not shared any details about the identities of those who died or the circumstances of their deaths.

They say the investigation is in its early stages, and residents can expect to see a large police presence in the area.

Treena Upcott, a friend of the family, says the mother was an amazing friend who made those around her feel appreciated.

Mayor Bondy added that the woman was very active in the community and had recently organized its minor soccer program, working hard to rally volunteers.