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Ottawa police are investigating after a woman was found severely beaten inside a downtown religious building Thursday afternoon.

The woman was found bloodied, beaten unconscious and half-naked inside the office at the Christian Science Reading Room at 141C Laurier Ave. West, near Elgin Street. Police believe she had also been sexually assaulted. She wast taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries and remained there Thursday night, clinging to life.

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According to its website, the reading room, which is part of the First Church of Christ, Scientist, “provides a public space for exploring practical Christian healing in a comfortable and healing environment.” The actual church is located on Metcalfe Street.

Sexual assault detectives were initially investigating the attack. Homicide investigators have since taken the case and ask that any potential witnesses or anyone with information about what happened to call 613-236-1222, ext. 5493.

No suspects were in custody Thursday night.

syogaretnam@postmedia.com

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