Toronto police have released the description of a suspect wanted in connection with sexual assaults committed during a series of break-and-enters in Etobicoke early Tuesday morning.
According to police, the suspect broke into six homes in the area of Bloor Street West, The Queensway, Islington Avenue and the Humber River between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m.
Some of the victims were sexually assaulted during the break-ins though none needed to be hospitalized, police said at a news conference Tuesday afternoon.
In one of the incidents, a 91-year-old woman was knocked to the floor after the suspect entered her home through a screen door. She activated a direct lifeline to notify police.
The crime spree drew a massive response from police from Toronto, Peel and York regions.
Toronto police sent at least one canine unit to the scene as officers scoured the neighbourhood and set up a perimeter, with help from Peel Regional Police.
A York Regional Police helicopter was also used in the search.
The suspect eluded police, but officers did find some clothing, gloves and a screwdriver.
The suspect is described as six feet tall with a slim build. Police expect to release further details on the suspect’s description as they become available.
Police are urging the suspect to contact a lawyer and turn himself in.
Toronto police Const. Tony Vella said it’s too early to say if Tuesday's break-ins are linked to other sexual assaults that have occurred in the area recently.
In response to the incidents, Vella urged people to call police if they see anything suspicious in their neighbourhood.
People should also secure their windows and doors, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-2200 or Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
With files from CP24’s Sue Sgambati
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