Boy, 14, identified as suspect in Shahnaz Pestonji’s killing

Article content

A 14-year-old boy is wanted by Toronto Police for the senseless stabbing death of a senior in North York, who was out shopping Thursday morning.

Article content

Police said officers responded to a call for a stabbing at approximately 9:35 a.m. in the Parkway Forest Dr. and Sheppard Ave. E. area near Don Mills Rd.

Article content

Article content

Officers located a female victim in her 70s who had been stabbed in a parking lot, police said. Cops performed life-saving measures on the victim and she was taken to hospital via an emergency run.

Sadly, the victim, 71-year-old Shahnaz Pestonji, died of her injuries.

According to police, Pestonji was putting groceries in her car when she was attacked.

Late Friday afternoon, police named the suspect as 14-year-old Kymani Wint of Toronto after obtaining judicial authorization to identify the young person.

Wint is wanted for second degree murder.

He is described as approximately 5-foot-7 and 135 pounds with a skinny build. He was wearing black pants and a black-hooded sweatshirt with “New York – 555” written on the front in white lettering. He has been seen wearing a balaclava-style face covering with his hood up, and carrying a black satchel.

Article content

Article content

“We now believe that this was a robbery that escalated into a deadly attack,” Det. Matthew Pinfold said during an update from 33 Division.

“Through reviewing video surveillance, speaking with witnesses, and observing the person’s movements prior to the attack, we believe that that person intended to rob Mrs. Pestonji.”

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

Play Video

Police said the suspect has evaded capture and are hoping the public can help locate where he is, noting that the alleged perpetrator has been identified on video travelling on local transit.

“We believe Kymani is using the TTC to travel throughout the city,” Pinfold said, adding he was last seen around noon Thursday at Kennedy Station.

Police are warning the public to not approach the suspect.

Article content

“He is considered dangerous,” Pinfold said. “If you see someone matching his description, or if you have any information about his whereabouts, please call 911 immediately.”

Pinfold asked the public and TTC riders to remain alert to their surroundings and to report anything suspicious.

“It is of the utmost importance that we get Kymani in custody as quickly and safely as possible,” Pinfold said, and urged the teen to face justice.

“For Kymani, I am directing you to turn yourself in immediately. We are actively looking for you and we will find you.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-3300 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).

Article content