Darko Lukic, 48, died in hospital on July 21 after being found unconscious and seriously assaulted outside his apartment at 122 Base Line Rd. W., a London & Middlesex Community Housing (LMCH) complex. His death is now being investigated as a homicide. Lukic, who lived across the hall from Marnie Lougheed, was described as a kind and supportive neighbor. Lougheed expressed deep sorrow and frustration, noting the building’s security issues and ongoing violence.
Residents, including Lougheed and James Wilson, have repeatedly complained about drug activity and violence in the building, which opened in 2023. Despite an exterior security system, drug dealers and other problematic individuals have been accessing the property. LMCH’s security, managed by both in-house staff and private contractors, has been criticized for its ineffectiveness. Spokesperson Matt Senechal explained that around-the-clock security isn’t feasible and that problem tenants face a lengthy eviction process.
Lukic’s death follows two other violent incidents this year: Cheryl Sheldon, who was killed by her boyfriend at another public housing site, and Zukifili ‘Zeko’ Abdul Hashim, who was stabbed outside his LMCH residence. Lougheed and Wilson are calling for enhanced security measures and better management responses. A mother of a toddler is leaving the building due to safety concerns. Lougheed plans to honor Lukic with a vigil and a memorial tree to remember him and to advocate against such violence.
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