Child Killed by Stray Bullet
An eight-year-old boy, identified as JahVai Roy, was fatally shot last month after being struck by a stray bullet while lying in bed at his North York apartment.
Shooting Inside Family Apartment
The tragic incident occurred shortly after midnight on August 16 inside an apartment near Martha Eaton Way and Trethewey Drive. JahVai had been lying in bed with his mother when the bullet entered.
Child Pronounced Dead in Hospital
Emergency services rushed him to the hospital, but despite efforts to save him, the young boy was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Teen Suspect Arrested
Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw announced on Wednesday that a teenage suspect, who was 15 at the time of the shooting and is now 16, has been arrested.
Facing First-Degree Murder Charge
The suspect is charged with first-degree murder along with five firearm-related offences, reflecting the severity of the case.
Arrest Made on Friday
Police confirmed the arrest took place on Friday. At the time, the accused was allegedly carrying a loaded firearm modified to fire automatically.
Two Additional Suspects Still Wanted
Authorities are still seeking two other young suspects: Ibrahim Ibrahim, 17, and Amarii Lindner, 18, both of Toronto.
Both Linked to Planned Shooting
Police revealed that Lindner was 17 at the time of the shooting. Investigators believe the attack was planned, even though JahVai was not the intended victim.
Plea to Remaining Suspects
Chief Demkiw urged both Ibrahim and Lindner to surrender to the authorities immediately.
Warning to Associates
He also warned that anyone found harbouring or assisting the suspects will face criminal charges.
Homicide Detective Speaks Out
Det.-Sgt. Jason Davis from the homicide and missing persons unit said JahVai was tragically not the intended target. However, given the planned nature of the shooting, the charge of first-degree murder remains applicable.
Suspects Believed to Still Be in Toronto
Investigators believe that both outstanding suspects are still within the city.
Vehicle Linked to Shooting Identified
Late last month, police released surveillance images of a white Acura fleeing the scene. On Wednesday, police confirmed the car belonged to the suspects.
Community in Shock
The killing of JahVai has sparked widespread anger and grief across Toronto communities.
Petition Against Gun Violence
The shooting has renewed calls for government action on gun crime, with a growing petition demanding stronger measures at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels.
Chief Condemns Violence
Chief Demkiw said police remain committed to tackling gun violence but urged the public to assist by coming forward with information.
Appeal for Information
Authorities continue to ask anyone with knowledge of the suspects’ whereabouts to contact Toronto Police or Crime Stoppers immediately.
