Toronto Police Arrest Suspect in University of Toronto Arson Investigation
Toronto Police have made a significant arrest in connection with a series of alleged arson incidents that occurred at the University of Toronto's downtown campus last month. The arrest comes as authorities continue to investigate a separate case involving threats made against a Toronto Transit Commission employee.
Details of the Campus Arson Investigation
According to police reports, a 42-year-old man has been taken into custody following an extensive investigation into multiple fires that were deliberately set at the University of Toronto's St. George Campus. The incidents occurred during the afternoon hours of January 14, 2026, specifically between 2:40 p.m. and 4:45 p.m. in the area surrounding Bloor Street West and Avenue Road.
Investigators allege that the suspect entered several campus buildings during this timeframe and intentionally lit multiple fires, resulting in property damage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from these incidents, though the potential danger to students, faculty, and staff was significant given the nature of the alleged crimes.
Charges Filed Against Arrested Individual
The arrested individual, identified as Yuriy Khraplyvyy, faces a substantial list of charges related to the campus incidents. Police have charged him with:
- Five counts of arson causing damage to property
- Two counts of mischief under $5,000
- One count of mischief over $5,000
- Extortion
- Uttering threats
- Two counts of failing to attend court
Khraplyvyy was arrested on Friday, February 6, 2026, following weeks of investigation by Toronto Police. The arrest represents a significant development in what appears to be a complex case involving multiple alleged offenses on university property.
Separate Investigation: TTC Employee Threatened
In an unrelated but ongoing investigation, Toronto Police are seeking public assistance to identify a suspect who allegedly threatened a TTC employee three months earlier. According to police reports, the incident occurred on November 10, 2025, when a man boarded a TTC streetcar in the Bathurst and College Streets area.
Police state that a transit worker was conducting fare inspections on board the streetcar and engaged in conversation with the individual. During this interaction, the suspect reportedly made threatening statements regarding a previous incident involving another TTC employee.
Description of TTC Threat Suspect
Investigators have released a description of the individual wanted in connection with the TTC threat case. The suspect is described as:
- A man in his mid-50s
- Approximately 5-foot-10 in height
- Heavy build
- Short facial hair
Toronto Police are urging anyone with information about either case to come forward. For the TTC threat investigation specifically, authorities are asking the public to contact them at 416-808-1400 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
The University of Toronto arson case and the TTC threat investigation represent two separate public safety concerns that Toronto Police are actively addressing. While the campus arson suspect has been apprehended, authorities continue their search for the individual involved in the transit worker threat incident.
