Windsor, Ontario, April 13, 2026 — An Ontario family is mourning the death of a Canadian man who was killed in Lebanon during renewed violence in the region, prompting sorrow and renewed concern over the impact of conflict on civilians abroad.
According to family members, 38-year-old Hassan Haidar, who lived in Windsor, had travelled to Lebanon in November to be with his wife and five children and care for horses raised on family property in southern Lebanon.
His brother, Mohamad Hussain Haidar, said Hassan had relocated his family to a safer area while remaining behind to look after the animals during escalating attacks. The family says tragedy struck last Thursday when Hassan was speaking with his wife by phone and heard cries for help outside the home.
According to relatives, a worker who helped care for the horses had reportedly been struck by a drone. When Hassan went outside to assist, he was fatally shot.
At a press conference in Windsor, Hassan’s sister, Fatima Haidar, described him as a kind, educated and deeply caring person who was devoted to both his family and animals.
She said Hassan was a mechanical engineer who had completed an automotive technician program at St. Clair College before later earning an engineering degree from University of Windsor.
Family members said he dreamed of building one of the largest horse farms in Lebanon and remained committed to protecting the animals he loved, even under dangerous conditions.
The death comes amid intensified hostilities in Lebanon involving Hezbollah and Israeli forces. Lebanese health officials have reported heavy casualties since the conflict escalated.
The family says Hassan’s loss has left an immeasurable void and is calling attention to the human cost of war, especially for civilians caught in violence while trying to protect their loved ones and livelihoods.