Edmonton Teen Sought in Two GTA Daylight Murders, Police Issue Canada-Wide Warrants
Law enforcement agencies in the Greater Toronto Area are intensifying their search for two young men connected to what detectives describe as "brazen" targeted daylight shootings that resulted in two fatalities. Authorities have issued Canada-wide arrest warrants for the primary suspect, 19-year-old Isaiah Thomas Badger from Edmonton, who is known to police, and an accomplice, 19-year-old Jacob "Baby Face" Wallace from Mississauga.
Details of the Incidents
The first shooting occurred on January 26 at approximately 1 p.m. in a commercial plaza near Winges and Rowntree Dairy Roads, south of Highway 7. York Regional Police responded to find 65-year-old Sergio Lopes of Richmond Hill suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to a hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. Investigators believe Lopes was specifically targeted in this attack.
The second incident took place on February 7 around 3:30 p.m. in the parking lot of the Woodbine Shopping Centre in Rexdale. At the scene, police discovered 37-year-old Chandan Kumar Raja Nandakumar of Brampton with fatal gunshot wounds. Both victims were pronounced dead, and the cases are being treated as homicides.
Suspects and Charges
Isaiah Thomas Badger is wanted for first-degree murder in connection with both shootings. Jacob Wallace is also facing a first-degree murder charge, with police alleging he acted as the wheelman in the Lopes killing. During a Tuesday news conference, Det. Sgt. Sandra Arruda stated, "We don't have a motive, the connection is that they share a suspect." She emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, with all avenues being explored.
Authorities suspect that Badger and Wallace are still hiding within the GTA and should be considered armed and dangerous. The public is advised not to approach them. Police are urging the accused to seek legal counsel and surrender voluntarily.
Community Response and Investigation
The Toronto Police and York Regional Police have combined efforts in this high-profile case, highlighting the seriousness of the crimes. Detective Arruda added, "We are looking at all avenues" to apprehend the suspects and determine the motives behind these violent acts.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the York Regional Police Homicide Unit at 1-866-876-5423, extension 7865, or via email at homicide@yrp.ca. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or visiting their website. The Toronto Police homicide unit can also be reached at 416-808-7400.
This case underscores ongoing concerns about gun violence in urban areas, with police working diligently to bring those responsible to justice and ensure community safety.
