The Durham Regional Police Service confirmed on March 5, 2026, that a convicted murderer is back in custody after being granted a temporary unescorted release in Oshawa, Ontario. Darren Scott Ray, 65, was allowed into the community on a 72-hour pass that did not require a guard to be present.
Police issued a safety alert on March 2, 2026, warning residents that Ray posed a significant risk to the public. He is currently serving a life sentence for the 1986 torture, rape, and murder of a 14-year-old high school student. The temporary release allowed him to be in the area for three days before returning to prison.
The Correctional Service of Canada granted the release permit as part of a federal program. While these passes are intended to help with the eventual reintegration of prisoners, the decision caused concern among local families due to the violent nature of the original crime.
Officials confirmed the visit ended as planned and Ray has been returned to the federal prison system. Police continue to encourage residents to report any suspicious activity to local authorities to ensure community safety.
