Ottawa police have upgraded charges against a 26-year-old Ottawa woman from aggravated assault to second-degree murder.
Louisa Killiktee was originally charged in July in connection with a beating on King Edward Avenue, in an alley near the Shepherds of Good Hope homeless shelter in downtown Ottawa.
Arlene Lahey, 44, was knocked unconscious during the early-morning altercation on July 11. She died from her injuries in hospital on Oct. 31.
Those familiar with the area refer to the alley as 'the sanctuary,' which serves as a sort of outdoor haven for those who want to get away from their troubles on the street.
Lahey was well-known to staff at the Shepherds of Good Hope. In July, staff reported she was visiting the area when the beating happened.
Killiktee was arrested shortly after officers arrived at the scene. She is currently in custody.
Police say their investigation is ongoing.
