‘Armed and dangerous’: Attempted murder on New Year’s Day leads to manhunt in Ontario, police say
Published January 3, 2025 at 2:48 pm
Police are warning the public to stay away from an “armed and dangerous” suspect wanted on an attempted murder charge following a motel shooting in Ontario.
York Regional Police say the shooting happened on New Year’s Day at a motel in the area of Yonge Street and Queensville Sideroad in East Gwillimbury, around 30 kilometres north of Richmond Hill.
Officers were called to the motel around 9:45 p.m. where they found a 24-year-old man suffering from “gunshot injuries,” police say.
The victim was rushed to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and has since been released.
No suspect was located at the time but investigators now say Joseph Pitre, 33, of King township is wanted on multiple offences including attempted murder, aggravated assault and unauthorized possession of a firearm.
Police have been unable to locate the suspect and are asking the public for information on his whereabouts.
Pitre is considered armed and dangerous and police are urging the accused to turn himself in.
“If seen, citizens are urged not to approach him but to call police immediately,” York police say.
Anyone with information about this incident can contact York Regional Police by calling 1-866-876-5423 ext. 7141. Anonymous tips may also be provided to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477 or visiting www.1800222tips.com.
When you contact Crime Stoppers you stay anonymous, never have to testify, and could receive a $2,000 reward.
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