Toronto Police Charge Two Men Following Firearm Seizure in Residential Search
Two Toronto men are facing multiple firearm-related charges after police executed a search warrant at a residence in the city's east end over the weekend. The incident unfolded on Sunday when officers conducted the operation in the Kingston Road and Galloway Road area, resulting in the alleged discovery of a loaded handgun.
Details of the Firearm Seizure
According to Toronto Police Service reports, investigators located a loaded Glock 26 9mm firearm during the execution of the search warrant. The weapon was allegedly found within the premises, prompting immediate charges against two individuals connected to the residence.
The accused have been identified as Darnell Vassal, 22, and Iyonna Jackson-Smith, 21, both residents of Toronto. Vassal faces seven distinct firearm-related charges, while Jackson-Smith has been charged with six counts related to firearm offenses.
Police Investigation and Public Appeal
Toronto police have confirmed that the investigation remains active and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Authorities have provided multiple channels for tip submission, including direct contact with investigators at 416-808-2500 or anonymous reporting through Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
"This seizure represents our ongoing commitment to removing illegal firearms from our communities," a police spokesperson noted in reference to the incident. "We encourage anyone with information about illegal weapons to contact us immediately."
Separate Auto Theft Case Results in Additional Charges
In an unrelated but similarly timed development, Toronto police have charged two additional men in connection with an auto theft investigation. The incident began on Saturday evening when a victim parked his vehicle in a residential parking garage near Dundas Street West and Thomas Riley Road, only to discover it stolen the following afternoon.
Using tracking technology, the victim located the stolen vehicle in the Eglinton Avenue West and Oakwood Avenue area and notified police. When officers attempted to intercept the vehicle, a collision occurred, sending the stolen car into a snowbank. The suspect fled on foot but was apprehended after a brief pursuit.
Christopher Cabus, 51, faces charges including possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, failure to stop for police, dangerous operation, and three counts of breach of probation. Jonnathan Rayos, 34, has been charged with theft of a motor vehicle, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, theft under, fraudulently obtaining food and lodging, and six counts of breach of probation.
Police indicate that a second suspect was already in custody for an unrelated theft at the time of this investigation. Authorities are requesting anyone with information about this auto theft case to contact them at 416-808-5200 or through Crime Stoppers.
Community Safety Implications
These separate incidents highlight ongoing law enforcement efforts to address property crimes and illegal firearm possession within Toronto communities. The firearm seizure particularly underscores concerns about weapons accessibility and public safety in residential areas.
Police statistics indicate that firearm-related investigations have remained a priority for Toronto law enforcement, with specialized units frequently conducting targeted operations to remove illegal weapons from circulation. The successful execution of search warrants like this one represents a tangible outcome of these ongoing initiatives.
Both cases demonstrate the collaborative nature of modern policing, combining traditional investigative techniques with technology-assisted tracking and community reporting mechanisms. The public appeals for information reflect law enforcement's recognition that citizen cooperation remains essential to addressing criminal activity effectively.
