Ontario doctor accused of murdering 89-year-old man returns to court

The Ontario doctor who was suspended from practicing medicine after being charged with first-degree murder will return to court today.

According to police, Dr. Brian Nadler allegedly killed 89-year-old Albert Poidinger of Point Claire, Quebec.

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario has confirmed that Nadler was immediately suspended after they were informed of the allegations against Nadler.

Nadler was arrested at the Hawkesbury Hospital later that day, and several deaths are being investigated by police.

The Ottawa Citizen reports that police were alerted by a whistleblower within the hospital, and that patients were being treated as a part of a recent COVID-19 outbreak.

"We are saddened by this news," said the hospital’s chief executive officer Marc LeBoutillier to the Citizen. "Delivering safe quality care is part of our mandate and commitment to the community."

A statement from the hospital said that they were working to help those involved in the "tragic situation to offer our condolences and support,” adding that they would be cooperating in all police efforts.

"We are grateful to the members of the community for their patience during this difficult time. We would like to thank the Hawkesbury Detachment of the OPP for their timely and effective response in this serious matter. We also want to thank our employees, physicians and management team for their dedication," the statement said.

Nadler's lawyer says the doctor maintains his innocence, according to the Canadian Press.