Friends of a murdered Ottawa man say they don't believe Simon Hubbard died as a result of a prostitution deal gone wrong.
A post-mortem revealed Monday that the 43-year-old died from stab wounds. He was found by neighbours lying in a pool of blood outside his New Edinburgh home on New Year's Day.
Police have charged a 26-year-old homeless woman with second-degree murder in connection with the killing. Police said Monday they were investigating several leads, including the possibility of prostitution.
Although police say the victim and accused knew each other, Hubbard's friends say they are unaware of his connection to the homeless woman.
Hubbard was remembered Tuesday as an incredible cook who was also a fun-loving musician.
Among his core group of friends, who've known each other for more than 30 years, Hubbard was best known for his smile and gentle heart.
Jennifer Bird made a brief court appearance on the second-degree murder charge on Monday. She is next scheduled to appear in court via video link on Friday.
The killing marks the city's first homicide of the year. Although the investigation is ongoing, police say they aren't looking for any other suspects.
"We can confidently say to the community that they shouldn't be worried about the safety in that particular neighbourhood, or any neighbourhood in the city. It wasn't a random act of the violence. There was an association between the victim and the suspect," Staff-Sgt. Michael Haarbosch told CTV Ottawa on Monday.
Hubbard's friends are still trying to come to grips with their loss. They are planning a memorial for their friend this weekend. A jam session will be part of the tribute.
Anyone with information about the murder is asked to contact Ottawa police at 613-236-1222, ext. 5493 or Crime Stoppers at 613-233-8477 (TIPS) or toll free at 1-800-222-8477.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's John Hua
