(Vaughan) The shooter at a Toronto-area condo was “a controlling and abusive husband and father” who had no contact with his children, his three daughters said in a statement.
Police say Francesco Villi killed five people on Sunday night — three property board members and their partners — in a shooting at the high-rise where he was residing in Vaughan, Ont.
The 73-year-old shooter’s three daughters said they were “deeply sorry” for the families of the victims.
“We offer our sincere condolences. We are in absolute shock, it is utter devastation,” they said in a statement issued Wednesday by the Special Investigations Unit (SIU).
Mr. Villi had an aggressive personality and could act completely different from one minute to the next, according to his daughters. They also claimed that he had a history of domestic violence against the mothers of his children and daughters, and that his own children had been separated from him for more than five years.
“His children have tried to build some form of relationship over the years, but he has refused many offers of help. This left them with no choice but to cut ties with him for their own health and well-being,” the statement read.
The girls, whose names have not been made public, asked for their privacy, adding that this statement would be the only one made by the family.
“We mourn the families, and they are in our hearts,” the statement also read.
If you or someone close to you is experiencing domestic violence, you can call 1800 363-9010. SOS violence conjugale workers are available 24 hours a day, free of charge and confidentially.