Video - Suspect for Identification in April Arson and Shooting in Vaughan
Investigators with the York Regional Police Firearms Investigations Team are seeking the public’s assistance to identify a suspect in connection with an arson and shooting at the same business in the City of Vaughan in April 2026.
On April 18, 2026, at 9:45 a.m., officers attended a business in the area of Islington Avenue and Kellam Street after an employee reported the smell of gasoline when they arrived at work. On scene, officers confirmed there was no fire and there were no injuries.
Video shows a lone suspect walking up to the main doors at 6:30 a.m. that morning, while holding a jerrycan. The suspect pours what appears to be an accelerant on the ground in front of the main doors. The suspect then throws large rocks at the windows before fleeing. It is unknown if there was any attempt to ignite the accelerant.
On April 22, 2026, at 5:40 a.m., officers attended the same business for a report of sounds of gunshots and a possible fire. On scene, it was determined the business sustained damage due to gunfire and the front glass door was smashed. There were no injuries.
Video shows a lone suspect walking up to the main doors at 5:30 a.m. that morning, holding a jerrycan and a duffel bag. The suspect discharges a firearm multiple times toward the front door and proceeds to enter the business with the jerrycan. A short time later, a small fire ignites within the vestibule as the suspect flees. The fire subsided on its own and there were no injuries.
A video of both incidents can be seen here: https://youtu.be/dHbzbEFYxDg
In the first incident, the suspect is described as male, Black and approximately 40-years-old. He was seen wearing a black fitted baseball cap with a gold sticker, a black hoodie and dark-coloured construction boots. In the second incident, the suspect is described as wearing a black mask, a purple hoodie, black pants and black shoes.
The same suspect vehicle is observed in both incidents and is described as a black minivan with tinted windows.
Investigators believe that both incidents involve the same suspect.
Officers are also seeking any surveillance video or dashcam footage from the area captured around the time of both incidents.
Anyone who has information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Firearms Investigations Team by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7817, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online at www.1800222tips.com.
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