Man accused in 2024 Ottawa murder, arson makes brief court appearance
Ahmed Hozayen, 31, and Naveen Alkhalil, 47, face several charges related to death of Ottokie Kelly
An Inuk woman reported missing in Ottawa on Tuesday has been found safe, police say. (File photo)
A murder case resulting from a deadly house fire in Ottawa in 2024 continues to inch forward nearly one year after charges were laid.
Ahmed Hozayen, 31, was charged Jan. 17, 2025, in connection with a fire that critically injured Ottokie Kelly, 51, at a home in Ottawa’s Nepean area on Oct. 8, 2024. Kelly died six weeks later, on Nov. 21, in a Toronto hospital.
Hozayen faces several charges, including first-degree murder, arson causing bodily harm, arson causing property damage, arson with disregard for human life, and possession of an incendiary material for arson.
In May 2025, police announced a second arrest, charging Naveen Alkhalil, 47, with first-degree murder and the same arson-related offences.
Hozayen appeared in a Superior Court of Justice courtroom on Friday.
Alkhahil, his co-accused, was listed on the court docket to make an appearance, but did not attend the proceeding. An articling student for the lawyer representing Alkhalil attended on her behalf.
In the appearance, which lasted less than five minutes, lawyers agreed to schedule a new court date to continue pretrial discussions related to the case.
Kelly lived in Ottawa for about 20 years. Her longtime partner, who had lived with her in the home for 15 years, suffered serious injuries in the fire.
Hozayen’s next court date is scheduled for Feb. 6. He remains in custody.
Late Ootookie Kelly and Her longtime partner deserves Justice and everyone Involved should stay in custody for rest of their lives. I wish the justice system would changed for murder charges & Sexual Assaults and start the court dates right away, enough of this waiting years as the long wait does not help families that are left behind.
Akkuluit to Ootookie’s family and Son.
RIP Ootookie you will get your JUSTICE.