Toronto, Canada — Authorities have identified a 62-year-old man who died following an unprovoked attack outside city hall last September. The victim, Joseph Eric Aubin, was left fatally injured after a violent incident believed to be part of a troubling pattern of assaults in the downtown area.
In connection with Aubin’s death, police have charged a 12-year-old boy and a 20-year-old man. The attack occurred on the morning of August 31, near the intersection of Queen Street West and Bay Street, where Aubin was allegedly struck with a hammer. He initially received treatment for serious injuries and was released from the hospital, but was later found unresponsive on September 4.
Investigators revealed that Aubin’s attack was one of five violent incidents that spanned just over two hours in close proximity to Yonge Street. The first attack happened around 5:45 a.m., when a man sitting on a bench near Yonge and Dundas was assaulted. Shortly after, at 5:52 a.m., a 70-year-old man was also attacked in the same vicinity and sustained serious injuries requiring hospitalization.
Another incident unfolded at 6:25 a.m. involving a 63-year-old man who was robbed of his cellphone near Gerrard and Yonge, during which he was pushed to the ground and suffered non-life-threatening injuries. At 8:07 a.m., a man near College and Yonge was assaulted after trying to walk away from a nearby confrontation, also sustaining injuries that were not life-threatening.
Detective Sergeant Stacey McCabe described the series of attacks as deeply concerning, emphasizing that none of the victims were acquainted with the suspects. The charged individuals include Isaiah Byers, 20, who faces several serious charges including second-degree murder and multiple counts of robbery and assault. The 12-year-old, whose identity is protected by law, is facing similar charges.
As the investigation continues, police are seeking assistance from the public to locate Aubin’s next of kin. Authorities noted that he was often known by the name “Eric” and is believed to have hailed from Quebec.
“After exhaustive efforts, we are still unable to find Mr. Aubin’s family members to inform them of his passing,” police officials stated in their appeal for help. The community’s support may prove crucial in connecting with Aubin’s relatives during this difficult time.