In the heart of Barrie, what was once a shelter for dozens of homeless people is now a pile of rotting garbage, dilapidated tents and collapsed makeshift structures. A fenced-off, silent area that smells of destruction and sadness.

The Ministry of the Environment has declared the site so dangerous that even cameras are banned. A massive clean-up is underway, but the camp, located between Victoria, John and Ansut streets, is reminiscent of the days when 40 to 60 people lived there.

The police investigation, which began on July 30, has revealed a grim story. Robert Ladouceur, known as “Tattoo Rob,” is accused of murdering William Robinson, 45, and David Chisco, 41. Suspicious human remains have also been found in surrounding areas, including Huntsville and North Simcoe, and are now being examined by the Toronto Medical Examiner’s Office.

Barry Mayor Alex Nuttall described the crime as “horrific,” saying, “The impact this tragedy has had on the residents of the camp is unbearable and at times it feels unreal.”

The green space is set to remain closed for months and the cost of cleaning it up will be enormous. Ladouceur, who was previously arrested on charges of carrying a weapon and fleeing police, now faces serious charges including manslaughter, manslaughter, indecent assault, and drug and weapons offenses.

More details of the case will be released at a Barry police news conference on August 26.

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