Zahra Ousmane and her family were visiting the protected area on the shores of Lake Niapenco Reservoir with a large group on September 3 when a part of the family realized she was missing, police said. They searched the area and contacted police around 6:18 p.m Hamilton police issued a public alert on Twitter shortly before 8 p.m. with a photo of Usman and a description of the little girl — black hair in a bun, wearing a white shirt and blue shorts — asking anyone who spots her to call police. “Once a search is made for a child, we throw all available resources (into the area),” said Staff Sgt. Jason Leake. However, at the same time the police issued a public appeal that the girl had been found. Zahra was found in the water from a kayak around 7:50 p.m., police said. Hamilton Paramedic Service Supt. Dave Thompson said the child was without vital signs. “Nurses attempted life-saving measures and the patient was taken to hospital without vital signs,” he said. The girl was pronounced dead at the hospital. Police were expected to remain in the protected area for much of the weekend gathering evidence. On Sunday, forensics were seen photographing the coastline, including inflatable water toys. Police are asking anyone who saw Zahra between 5pm and 7.50pm or anyone who took video in the area to contact police. In Ontario, all sudden deaths of children under the age of five must be investigated as serious cases by the police. In Hamilton, the homicide unit always takes these cases. This does not mean that a death is considered suspicious. Police said Zahra’s death does not appear to be suspicious. Hamilton police victim services have also been called in to assist the family. Leek called the death “a very tragic set of circumstances.” “Our hearts go out to her family for their tragic loss,” police said on Twitter. Anyone with information or video is asked to call Det. Lisa Chambers at 905-546-3843. SHARE:
