Toronto Police have arrested a 17-year-old boy and are searching for a second suspect following an alleged armed robbery during an online marketplace transaction in North York. The incident, which involved a stolen cellphone and a recovered firearm, has prompted authorities to issue a public safety reminder.
Armed Robbery During Online Sale Meetup
According to Toronto Police, the incident occurred on Sunday, November 30, 2025. A seller had arranged to meet a prospective buyer to complete the sale of a cellphone through an online marketplace. The meetup was set for the area of Sheppard Avenue West and Arleta Avenue, east of Jane Street.
Police allege that during the transaction, the accused teen distracted the victim, stole the phone, and attempted to flee with an unknown accomplice. When the victim tried to intervene, one of the suspects threatened the victim with a firearm. Both suspects then fled the scene in a vehicle.
Search Warrant Yields Handgun and Arrest
Investigators from 31 Division identified a suspect and, with assistance from the Emergency Task Force, executed a search warrant at an address in Scarborough on Monday, December 1, 2025.
During the search, officers located and arrested the 17-year-old suspect. Police further allege they seized a 9mm Beretta handgun, ammunition, and a quantity of cash from the location.
The Toronto teen, who cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, faces a string of charges including:
- Robbery with a firearm
- Pointing a firearm
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000
- Multiple firearm-related offences for possessing a weapon without a licence and careless storage
- Possession of proceeds of crime
Second Suspect Sought and Public Warning
Police continue to search for a second male suspect described as Black, 16 or 17 years old, and approximately 5-foot-7 in height.
In light of the incident, Toronto Police are reminding the public to exercise caution when conducting private sales arranged online. Authorities recommend meeting in well-lit, populated public spaces and remaining aware of one's surroundings during such transactions.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Toronto Police at 416-808-3100 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
