2nd suspect arrested in connection with public housing homicide

The London Police Service (LPS) has apprehendeda second previously wanted suspect in connection with a homicide investigation at a public housing site in the city's south end dating back to July 20.

Joseph Mark Mercer Veneau, 30, was arrested in the Halifax area early Saturday morning with the help of Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and Halifax regional police,LPS saidin a statement on Thursday. He has been returned to London, Ont. and is expected to appear in court in relation to charges linked to the death of Darko Lukic.

Lukic, 48, was found with life-threatening injuries outside 122 Base Line Rd. W. following a serious assault in July. The father of two was hospitalized and died several days later, prompting police to launch a homicide investigation.

On Aug.7, LPS announced19-year-oldDauntae Johnsonhad been taken into custody on one count each of second-degree murder and assault with a weapon. They issued a warrant for Veneau, who faces the same charges and an additional count of assault with a weapon.

Lukic's death was one of three at London public housing buildings in the span of two months.

In June, Zukifili (Zeko)Abdul Hashim, 18, was stabbed outside the London MiddlesexCommunity Housing (LMCH) complex where he lived on Southdale Road East and Millbank Drive.

Days later, Cheryl Sheldon, who lived at 345 Wharncliffe Rd. N., died in hospital after she was found in her apartment. Her boyfriend has been charged with second-degree murder.

Shawn Lewis, London's deputy mayor and an LMCH board member, said a security review of the Base Line Road building had been conducted, which will inform future changes.