PHOTO: GOFUNDME
A Canadian former couple, described by loved ones on an online fundraiser as “devoted teachers,” were tragically killed in a shooting, according to authorities. On July 13, officers responded to a call in Oshawa, Ontario, where they discovered Patrick Montgomery inside one home and Andrieana Montgomery inside another along the same street, according to Durham Regional Police. Both 42, the victims sustained gunshot wounds and were later pronounced dead.
The Peterborough Examiner reports that the couple was still married but separated, living in separate residences on the same street. At a press conference, Sgt. Joanne Bortoluss stated that a 30-year-old man was arrested at the second home without incident, clarifying that the shooting was “not a domestic-related incident,” as reported by Global News.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Mark Gordon, who has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, according to CTV News Toronto. It remains unclear if Gordon has entered a plea or retained an attorney. Police confirmed that the suspect knew the victims, but the motive for the killings is still under investigation.
Adriana Montgomery was a longtime art teacher at Bowmanville High School, while Patrick Montgomery worked at the Durham Catholic District School Board, reported CP24. The couple is survived by their two sons, aged 12 and 10.
A GoFundMe campaign was created to help cover funeral and other costs, and it described the couple as “devoted teachers.” Fundraiser organizer Mike Modeste wrote, “Pat was an active and loving man who could light up a room. He took great joy in being a father, playing sports with his sons, coaching them, and building them a backyard ice rink.”
The fundraiser continued, “Andrieana was an incredibly talented artist and brought the arts to life with her boys. Motherhood was something that came to her naturally and was a responsibility that she took on with the utmost care, love, and grace. Both were devoted teachers who cared deeply for their students.”
Patrick was also a former ice hockey player with The Oshawa Generals, who mourned the deaths in a post shared on X, formerly Twitter, on July 15. The team wrote, “It is with a saddened heart that the Generals organization express condolences for the passing of former left-winger, Pat Montgomery, as well as Andrieana Montgomery. We send our prayers for healing to all those affected.”
As of July 19, the fundraiser has garnered more than $158,000 USD in donations. The community’s response highlights the deep impact Patrick and Andrieana had on those around them, both as educators and as beloved members of their community.
