Circle R Ranch manager speaks out amid homicide probe

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A homicide at a summer camp and outdoor education centre west of London is a “tragic incident” but isn’t connected to the business, the manager says.

Emergency crews responded around 9 a.m. Monday to the Circle R Ranch, located at 3017 Carriage Rd. in Delaware, to a reported sudden death. Investigators ruled the case a homicide and charged Nicholas Russell-Ewanation, 28, of Middlesex Centre, with second-degree murder, police said.

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Police didn’t release the deceased’s name, but court documents identify him as Barry Ewanation and list the accused’s address as the Delaware ranch.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of the deceased during this incredibly difficult time. We can confirm this incident is not connected to the business of Circle R Ranch,” manager Nigel Tracy said in a statement to The Free Press.

“We kindly ask for privacy on behalf of family and friends affected by this tragedy, as they deal with a significant and complex set of losses.”

OPP investigators remained on the scene of the 220-acre property for a third day Wednesday. Police have said there’s no threat to public safety.

Established in 1966, Circle R Ranch features a range of outdoor activities – everything from horseback riding and canoeing to archery and cross-country skiing – and is a popular destination for school field trips throughout the year.

The Thames Valley District school board is cancelling all planned field trips for this week to the Circle R Ranch, a board spokesperson said.

“Schools will be communicating to families,” spokesperson Cheryl Weedmark said in an email Wednesday.

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Tracy said the ranch remains open for groups and camps, adding further information would be provided to the camp community as permitted.

“Circle R Ranch has been a cherished place for outdoor education and recreation for many years. The safety and well-being of our campers, participants, staff, and the community have always been and remain our highest priorities,” he said.

“We will be communicating directly with camper families and scheduled groups about upcoming bookings. The summer camp season will operate as planned.”

Russell-Ewanation made a brief court appearance Wednesday morning, speaking by phone from the hospital under the guard of a London police officer. His lawyer, Tony Bryant, asked for the case to be adjourned until June 5 and a publication ban was placed on any evidence discussed.

The relationship between the accused the victim wasn’t immediately clear.

A visibly emotional man with the same last name as the victim watched the virtual court hearing.

An OPP spokesperson declined to say why Russell-Ewanation was in the hospital.

dcarruthers@postmedia.com

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