Alleged MS-13 gang member removes GPS monitor after being released on bail: York police

An alleged MS-13 gang member who was charged as part of an investigation into a 2023 shooting in Ontario removed a GPS monitor after being released on bail, police say.

York Regional Police said they don’t know where he might be, but said he has connections to the Greater Toronto Area and Hamilton.

Police said that in 2023, officers launched Project Rebellion, which was an investigation into an attempted murder in the Town of Schomberg in York Region.

Investigators learned that members of the Mara Salvatrucha gang, commonly known as MS-13, were allegedly hired by an organized crime group to kill a man in February of that year, police said.

MS-13 is a notorious gang based out of Central America that’s known for its violence.

“Through investigation, it was determined that the suspects targeted the wrong person and shot the victim instead,” police said.

“The victim survived and continues his lengthy recovery process.”

Police previously said that the victim was a 65-year-old man who had been walking his dog on a residential street when a shots were fired from a car that passed him at a “high rate of speed.”

The man was hit multiple times.

Between May 18 and June 1, 2023, officers executed search warrants in Toronto and Hamilton. Eight people were charged.

Ronald Mortaya-Cruz, 43, was charged with two counts of participation in activities of a criminal organization.

“He was released on bail as a result of his charges and placed on conditions, including the wearing of a GPS monitoring device,” police said.

On May 11, officers learned that the GPS monitor was removed and Mortaya-Cruz was last seen in the area of Keele Street and Grandravine Drive, which is north of Sheppard Avenue West in Toronto, police said.

A warrant has been issued for Mortaya-Cruz, who is wanted for three counts of failing to comply with a release order.

‘Considered armed and dangerous’

“All investigative avenues have been exhausted and his whereabouts remain unknown,” police said.

“He is considered armed and dangerous. If seen, do not approach. Contact local police or Crime Stoppers instead.”

Police described him as five-foot-nine with a heavy build and said he has short black hair, a long black / grey beard and brown eyes.

He has tattoos on his right hand, both forearms and on the left side of his neck, police said.

He is reportedly also known as “Azul.”

Anyone with information was asked to come forward.

MAN INVOLVED IN 2023 SHOOTING INVESTIGATION BEING SOUGHT AFTER GPS MONITORING DEVICE REMOVED

Ronald MORTAYA-CRUZ, 43, was charged in June 2023 with two counts of Participation in Activities of Criminal Organization as part of Project Rebellion. MORTAYA-CRUZ was released on bail…

— York Regional Police (@YRP) October 31, 2024