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Alerts Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Police Issue Home Invasion Warning! #TCB #StandYourGround

York Regional Police are issuing a public warning following a violent daytime home invasion in the Town of Aurora.

On Thursday, March 6, 2025, at approximately 11:20 a.m., police were called to a residence in the area of Murray Drive and Kennedy Street for a home invasion. The female victim reported answering the door after someone was knocking aggressively. As the front door opened, a male suspect forced his way into the residence and attempted to restrain her.

A second victim, who was also at the residence, attempted to intervene and was violently assaulted.

The suspect fled the residence in an unknown direction on foot, without making any demands for valuables or stealing anything.

Both victims suffered serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.

The suspect is described as:

  • Male, white
  • 20 to 30 years old
  • Approximately 6’ and approximately 175 lbs. to 180 lbs.
  • Wearing a black balaclava, with two eye-holes and a separate mouth hole, a midweight black puffy coat, black pants and black boot-like footwear

York Regional Police would like to warn the community to always know who is at your door before opening it. This can be done from a window where the person would not be able to see you, for example, a second floor or living room window. If able, use security cameras or peepholes to verify who is at the door before opening it.

If you feel unsafe, trust your instincts and call 9-1-1 right away.

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. To leave an anonymous tip online, visit www.1800222tips.com.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Home Invaders Demand Lamborghini Keys, Fail, Then Settle For Porsche

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit are seeking two suspects following a home invasion in the City of Vaughan.

On Monday, March 3, 2025, shortly after 4:30 a.m., police were called to a residence in the area of Thornhill Woods Drive and Fraserwood Road for a home invasion. The victim reported two suspects forced their way into a home, demanded money and keys to a Lamborghini. At least one suspect was armed with a small knife.

The suspects were unsuccessful in obtaining the keys to the Lamborghini. However, the suspects fled in the victim’s 2018 Porsche Macan sport utility vehicle.

There was one other adult and a child in the home at the time. Fortunately, no one was injured.

A video of the incident can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/2ENPitp9ghw

Suspect #1 is described as male, light skin, approximately 5’10 to 5’11 with a thin build. He was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, black ski mask, black pants, black shoes, gloves and was holding a small knife.

Suspect #2 is described as male, light skin, approximately 5’11” to 6’ with a thin build. He was last seen wearing a black jacket, black toque, black ski mask, black pants, gloves and red and black shoes.

Investigators believe this is a targeted incident and are appealing for any witnesses to come forward. They would also like to speak with anyone who may have video surveillance or dashcam footage in the area at the time of the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. To leave an anonymous tip online, visit www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

“Man” Plays With Genitals In Shopping Mall #PervertAlert


Investigators with the York Regional Police #4 Criminal Investigations Bureau have charged a 50-year-old man and are appealing for more victims to come forward following an investigation in the City of Vaughan.

On February 23, 2025, the victim reported that an indecent act occurred at a store in a shopping mall in the area of Jane Street and Rutherford Road the day prior. At approximately 2 p.m., on February 22, 2025, the victim was in a store with their child when a male, unknown to them, exposed himself and touched his genitals.

Through investigation, the male was identified and charged on March 2, 2025.

Investigators are releasing an image of the suspect as they believe there are more victims and encourage them to come forward.

Charged:

  • Dale FORDER, 50, of the City of Toronto

Charges:

  • Indecent Exposure to Person Under 16 Years of Age
  • Indecent Act

A sexual assault includes any non-consensual contact of a sexual nature. York Regional Police would like to encourage anyone who feels they may have been a victim of a sexual assault to come forward and report the incident to police. There is no statute of limitations for sexual offences and offenders can be prosecuted well after the date of the offence.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Murder: 22 Year Old Arrested

Investigators with the York Regional Police Homicide Unit have charged a 22-year-old man and are seeking witnesses following an arson at a restaurant in the Township of King.

On Sunday, February 16, 2025, shortly before 3 a.m., police attended a restaurant in the area of Highway 27 and King Road for reports of a fire. When emergency services arrived, the premise was fully engulfed in flames.

King Fire and Emergency Services extinguished the fire, conducted a search of the property and located a deceased person inside.

The circumstances surrounding the fire are considered suspicious and the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal has been engaged.

The identity of the deceased person will not be known until a positive identification has been made by the Office of the Chief Coroner.

Through investigative efforts, a suspect was identified and charged.

Charged:Saeed ALSHOUBAKI, 22, of the City of MississaugaCharges:Second-Degree MurderArson

This incident is considered targeted and investigators are asking anyone who was in the area at the time to check their security cameras or dashcam footage.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Homicide Unit at 1-866-876-5423 ext. 7865, or email at [email protected], or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

4 Fatal Collisions

York Regional Police is reminding the public of the shared responsibility of road safety after four people were recently charged in separate fatal collisions that occurred between September 2024 and January 2025.

Many collisions are preventable and there are a number of steps that the public can take to mitigate collisions and ensure that York Region roadways remain safe for all users.  

  • Monitor your speed: Excessive speed is the most common contributing factor to fatal collisions
  • Wear your seatbelt: Using a seatbelt is the most effective way to reduce the chance of injury or death in a motor vehicle collision
  • Don’t drive while impaired: Impaired driving remains the number one criminal cause of death in Canada. When you consume alcohol or drugs and drive, you risk the lives of your passengers, the lives of every other driver and pedestrian on the road and your own
  • Be an attentive driver: Collisions due to distracted driving are becoming increasingly common. Distractions can come from many sources, such as talking or texting on your phone, eating and reading

Since the last public appeal for more diligent operation of motor vehicles, investigators have charged four more drivers involved in fatal collisions.

Charged:Yangyang LIU, 47, of the City of VaughanCharges:Dangerous Operation Cause Death
 Anthony BUFFONE, 46, of the City of Mississauga Dangerous Operation Cause Death x2Dangerous Operations Cause Bodily Harm
 18-year-old male, of the Town of Bolton Dangerous Operation Cause Death
 Asad WADIA, 36, of the City of Vaughan Dangerous Operation Cause Death

Road safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Information can be provided to the Major Collision Investigation Unit by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7704. Anyone wanting to provide information anonymously can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or provide a tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Shooting Caught On Video

Investigators with the York Regional Police #5 District Criminal Investigations Bureau are appealing for witnesses and searching for a suspect after a woman was shot outside her home in the City of Markham.

On Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at approximately 5:30 p.m., police responded to reports of a shooting in the area of Lee Avenue and Noble Street. When they arrived, they located a woman suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injures.

Video recovered from the area shows the suspect arrived in a dark-coloured, Audi A4 sedan. The suspect is described as male, Asian, skinny build, wearing a high-visibility vest, construction helmet, a dark-coloured hooded sweater, black pants and a medical mask.

The victim exited her home to speak with the suspect and as she was returning to her residence the suspect shot her.

A video of the incident can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ReDcFBKciJ4

Investigators believe the incident is targeted and are appealing to anyone who has not yet spoken to police to please come forward. Additionally, officers are seeking surveillance video or dashcam footage from the area at the time of the shooting.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police #5 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7541, or leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Police Warn Of Staged Collision Carjackings

York Regional Police is issuing a warning to the public following a re-emergence of staged collision carjackings.

In these incidents, suspects will purposely cause minor collisions by driving into the victim’s vehicle. When the victim exits their vehicle to assess the damage, the suspects will confront the victims, often with firearms, and steal the vehicle. Suspects have also used distraction techniques to allow another suspect to steal the vehicle when the victim isn’t looking.

On November 3, 2024, at approximately 7 p.m., police responded to reports of a carjacking in the area of Warden Avenue and Major Mackenzie Drive in Markham. The victim was rear-ended by the suspect’s Honda sedan. When he exited to check the damage, he was confronted by two suspects armed with firearms. One suspect stole the victim’s Lexus, while the other fled in the Honda.

On Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at approximately 7:10 p.m., police responded to a carjacking in the area of Kirkham Drive and Karachi Drive in Markham. A male suspect on a bicycle rode into the side of the victim’s Cadillac Escalade. When the victim got out to check on the male, a dark sedan pulled up behind the Escalade. Two suspects exited the sedan, threatened the victim with a firearm and stole the vehicle.

On Thursday, January 9, 2025, at approximately 8:20 p.m., police responded to an attempted carjacking in the area of King Road and Highway 27 in Vaughan. The victim’s Cadillac Escalade was lightly rear-ended. When the victim got out of the vehicle to assess the damage, she was confronted by two suspects, one armed with a firearm. The suspects attempted to steal her vehicle but were unsuccessful due to a kill switch being installed in the Escalade.

On Friday, January 17, 2025, at approximately 5:50 p.m., police responded to a carjacking in the area of Leslie Street and Bethesda Sideroad in Richmond Hill. The victim’s Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon was rear-ended by a dark coloured sport utility vehicle (SUV). When the victim got out of the vehicle to assess the damage, a suspect entered his vehicle and drove away.

Police are advising citizens to always be aware of their surroundings. Trust your instincts. If you feel you are being followed, or if something doesn’t feel right, drive to a police station or contact police immediately. If you are involved in a collision and have concerns about the circumstances call 9-1-1. If you are the victim of a carjacking, prioritize your personal safety and be the best witness you can be.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or online at www.1800222tips.com.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Another Police Officer Arrested – SUN

As a result of an investigation by the York Regional Police Professional Standards Bureau, a York Regional Police officer has been charged with multiple offences.

On January 15, 2025, Constable Guangnan (Garry) SUN was arrested and charged with:

  • Unauthorized Use of Computer x23
  • Breach of Trust by Public Officer x2
  • Obstructing Justice

Constable SUN commenced his employment with YRP in August, 2022. After joining YRP, Constable SUN worked in 5 District and more recently he worked out of the Community Resource Centre, located at 10720 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill.

Constable SUN has been released from custody with conditions. His first court appearance date is February 18, 2025 at the Ontario Court of Justice in Newmarket.

Anyone with additional information related to this case is asked to contact the Professional Standards Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6676 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-tips, leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Home Invasion – One Shot – Susupects At Large & Possibly Wounded


Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit are seeking multiple suspects after shots were fired during a home invasion in the City of Vaughan.

On Monday, January 6, 2025, at 3:49 a.m., police responded to a home invasion at a residence in the area of Sir Sanford Fleming Way and Grand Turk Avenue. Once on scene, officers learned that multiple suspects broke through the rear glass door and at least one suspect was armed with a handgun. When the residents were confronted, a struggle ensued and the gun was discharged.

A victim was located suffering from a gunshot wound and transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. No other residents were injured. However, investigators believe one of the suspects may have been injured during the incident and are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

During the struggle, the suspects dropped the handgun and fled in a dark-coloured sport utility vehicle (SUV). The gun was recovered at the scene.

The suspects remain outstanding.

Suspect #1: male, 25 to 30 years old, approximately 5’10” with a skinny build, wearing a black hooded sweater, black balaclava and carrying a handgun with an extended magazine.

Suspect #2: male, 25 to 30 years old, approximately 5’8” with a skinny build, wearing a balaclava with unknown clothing.

Suspect #3 and #4: male, 25 to 30 years old, no description available.

Suspect #5: no description available.

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Wanted For Attempted Murder – DO NOT APPROACH: Andrew Joseph PITRE

Investigators with the York Regional Police #1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau are seeking a 33-year-old man wanted for Attempted Murder.

On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at approximately 9:45 p.m., police were called to a motel in the area of Highway 11 and Canal Road, in the Township of King, for a report of a shooting. When officers arrived, they located a 24-year-old male victim with gunshot injuries. He was transported to a trauma centre with non-life-threatening injuries and has since been released. The suspect was not located at that time.

Andrew Joseph PITRE, 33, of the Township of King, is wanted for Attempted Murder and firearms-related offences. Police have been unable to locate him and a warrant has been issued for his arrest. Investigators are releasing his image and appealing to the public for information on his whereabouts.

PITRE is considered armed and dangerous. If seen, citizens are urged not to approach him but to call police immediately.

The accused is encouraged to seek legal advice and turn himself in.

Wanted:

  • Andrew Joseph PITRE, 33, of Township of King

Charges:

  • Attempted Murder
  • Discharging Firearm with Intent
  • Careless Use of a Firearm
  • Aggravated Assault
  • Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
  • Possession of a Restricted Firearm
  • Point Firearm
  • Unlicenced Person Possess Prohibited/Restricted Weapon

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police #1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7141, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-tips, leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Youth Sexually Assaulted – One Arrested


Investigators with the York Regional Police Human Trafficking Unit have charged a Vaughan man after an investigation into the trafficking of a youth in the City of Vaughan.

On December 26, 2024 at approximately 2:50 p.m., officers attended a residence in the area of Steeles Avenue and Bathurst Street for a Check Welfare call. On scene, officers learned that the victim, a youth, was being held against her will, had been sexually assaulted and was being trafficked for a sexual purpose.

The suspect met the victim at a shopping centre two months prior and began communicating with her on social media. The suspect lured the victim to his residence where he sexually and physically assaulted her. The suspect took pornographic photos of the victim in order to advertise sexual services and then trafficked her for this purpose.

York Regional Police is releasing an image of the suspect as investigators believe there are additional victims and are encouraging them to come forward. A photo of the suspect and a list of charges can be found found HERE.

A sexual assault includes any non-consensual contact of a sexual nature. York Regional Police encourages victims to report incidents of sexual assault, including historical offences. There is no statute of limitations for sexual offences and offenders can be prosecuted well after the date of the offence.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Fatal Pedestrian Collision


Investigators with the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigations Unit are appealing for witnesses after a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle in the City of Markham

On Thursday, December 19, 2024, shortly after 7 a.m., officers responded to a report of a collision involving a pedestrian in the area of Markham Road and Golden Avenue.

When officers arrived, a 53-year-old man was located and found to have sustained severe injuries after being struck by a vehicle which remained at the scene.

The man was taken to a local hospital but was later airlifted to a nearby trauma centre. On Friday, December 20, 2024, the man succumbed to his injuries.

No charges have been laid at this time. The investigation is ongoing.

Investigators are appealing to any witnesses who have not yet spoken to police, and to anyone who may have dashcam footage of the area at the time of the collision, to please come forward.

Video can be uploaded through this link: https://yrp.ca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/24-398668 or by scanning the QR code.

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigations Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7704, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. An anonymous tip can be left online at www.1800222tips.com.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Threatening To Bring Gun To School Ends With Arrest

York Regional Police Criminal Investigations Bureau investigators have laid charges against a male youth following a threats investigation.

On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, officers attended a secondary school after the youth threatened to bring a firearm and cause harm at the school.

Through investigation, a search warrant was conducted at the youth’s residence and a number of firearms were seized.

The youth has since been charged with Uttering Threats and Possession of a Restricted Firearm without a Licence.

Youth Engagement Officers, under the York Regional Police Community Services Bureau, were engaged at the onset of the investigation. A Violent Threat Risk Assessment (VTRA) was conducted by Youth Engagement Officers, certified Board staff and community partners. This occurred once the student was removed from the school setting and no longer posed a threat.

The goal of a VTRA is to determine how to best support a student and decrease the likelihood of harm to themselves or others. In conjunction with a VTRA, a safety plan is created for the victim or potential victim.

York Regional Police remains committed to working collaboratively with the York Region school boards to ensure the safety of students and the broader community of York Region.

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police non-emergency line at 1-866-876-5423 or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. An anonymous tip can also be left online at www.1800222tips.com.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Teacher Charged With Sexual Assault – Police Fear More Victims


York Regional Police have charged a 51-year-old man from the Town of Georgina in connection with a sexual assault investigation involving a student in York Region.

On December 9, 2024 York Regional Police began an investigation after a student reported having been sexually assaulted by a teacher in September.

The name and location of the school are not being released to protect the identity of the victim.

The accused has been working as a high school teacher with the York Region District School Board.

The suspect is also active in the community as a volleyball coach in Keswick. Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are asking anyone with information regarding this or other incidents to please come forward. 

Charged: Andrew HAGERMAN, 51, of Georgina Charges: Sexual Assault 

A sexual assault includes any non-consensual contact of a sexual nature. York Regional Police encourages victims to report incidents of sexual assault, including historical offences. There is no statute of limitations for sexual offences and offenders can be prosecuted well after the date of the offence.

If someone is not ready to report, however is seeking support, please contact York Region Victim Services victimservices-york.org , the Cedar Centre http://www.cedarcentre.ca/ or the Women’s Support Network womenssupportnetwork.ca. Additional resources and information can also be found on our website http://www.yrp.ca/en/services/resources/sexualassaultsurvivorsguide.pdf

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7075, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

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Police Press Releases York Regional Police

Shots Fired – Winston VERNON Wanted By Police


Investigators with the York Regional Police #1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau have issued an arrest warrant for an Aurora man, after shots were fired at a home in Newmarket.

On Sunday, December 15, 2024, at approximately 4:15 a.m., police responded to a residence in the area of College Manor Drive and Greig Circle for a report that shots had been fired. When officers arrived, multiple shell casings were found in front of the residence. Damage had been caused to the house and a vehicle parked in the driveway. A white hatchback was seen fleeing the area.

The house was occupied at the time of the shooting. There were no physical injuries.

Investigators believe the incident was targeted. 

Wanted:Winston VERNON, 35, City of Aurora Charges:Mischief to PropertyUnauthorized Possession of a FirearmUttering ThreatsAssault with a WeaponPointing a FirearmFail to Comply with UndertakingPossession of Firearm Contrary to Prohibition Order x2 

Investigators are seeking any additional video surveillance from the area, and are appealing to anyone who may have captured dashcam footage on the roadways at the time of the incident. Anyone who has not yet spoken to police is asked to please come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the #1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7141, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com