Toronto Police Launch Public Appeal After Unprovoked Attacks on Women
Toronto Police Service has issued a public appeal for assistance in identifying a suspect involved in two separate unprovoked attacks against women that occurred late Friday afternoon. The incidents took place in the area of Yonge Street and Parkview Avenue, prompting an urgent investigation by local authorities.
Details of the Disturbing Incidents
According to police reports, the first victim was walking along the street when a man approached from behind and struck her in the back of the head without any provocation or warning. While the initial victim was contacting emergency services to report the assault, the suspect continued walking down the street and allegedly attacked a second woman in a similar manner.
Police have expressed concern that there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward, and they are urging anyone with information about these incidents or similar encounters to contact investigators immediately.
Suspect Description Released to Public
Investigators have provided a detailed physical description of the individual they are seeking:
- Approximately 5-foot-7 in height
- Estimated to be between 25 and 35 years old
- Distinctive black moustache
- Wearing a black toque, blue winter jacket, black pants
- Red, black, and white shoes
The Toronto Police Service has emphasized that this individual should be considered potentially dangerous and members of the public should not approach him directly if spotted.
How to Assist the Investigation
Authorities have established multiple channels for information submission:
- Direct contact with Toronto Police at 416-808-3200
- Anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477)
- Online submission through the Crime Stoppers website
Police are particularly interested in any security camera footage, dash-cam recordings, or eyewitness accounts that might help identify the suspect or provide additional context about the incidents.
Separate Fatal Incident in West Toronto
In an unrelated but similarly concerning development, Toronto Police are investigating a fatal pedestrian collision that occurred in the city's west end. A 28-year-old man lost his life after being struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Dundas Street West and Acorn Avenue.
According to preliminary investigation details, the pedestrian was crossing the street when a grey Toyota Rav4 proceeded through the intersection and struck him. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Joseph Daniel Alvarado Portillo, a 25-year-old resident of Mississauga, has been arrested and charged with dangerous operation of a conveyance in connection with this incident. Police continue to seek additional evidence, including security and dash-cam footage from the area.
Recent Apprehension in Alliston
In a separate law enforcement development, provincial police have announced the apprehension of a federal offender who had been evading authorities since mid-January. Thomas Hackett was arrested by the Nottawasaga OPP in Alliston, Ontario, while serving a two-year sentence for multiple offenses including assault, driving under the influence, and failure to comply with court orders.
The Ontario Provincial Police's Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement Squad has publicly thanked community members for their assistance in locating the fugitive, highlighting the importance of public cooperation in maintaining community safety across the province.
