Police in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario say five people – including three children – are dead in what they are calling a case of intimate partner violence.

Police responded to separate homes after calls to 911 on Monday night.

A 41 year old person was found deceased in one home.

In the next residence, police found multiple victims, including a 6-year old, 7-year old, and 12-year old.

They transported a 45-year old person to hospital. The shooter, a 44-year old, was found dead from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

Sault Ste. Marie Police Chief Hugh Stevenson said in a statement that ‘’the grief the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims are facing is unimaginable.’’

He also encouraged people who are struggling – or people who know someone who is struggling – to make use of mental health supports available.