Fatal Shooting at North York Park
Toronto police have identified the victim in a deadly shooting at a North York park as Daniel Stopnicki, a Toronto man who was found with multiple gunshot wounds and pronounced dead at the scene.
Officers responded to Wenderly Park following reports of a shooting and discovered Stopnicki suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite emergency response efforts, he did not survive.
Suspect Charged with Second-Degree Murder
Investigators have arrested and charged a 67-year-old man with second-degree murder in connection with the killing. In Canada, second-degree murder is an intentional killing that does not meet the criteria for first-degree murder — which requires planning and deliberation. A conviction for second-degree murder carries a mandatory life sentence with no eligibility for parole for a minimum of 10 years and up to 25 years, at the discretion of the judge.
The relatively advanced age of the accused has drawn attention to the case, as homicide charges against individuals in their late sixties are uncommon. Toronto police have not yet publicly disclosed a motive or the relationship, if any, between the accused and the victim.
Community Impact
Wenderly Park, like many green spaces across Toronto's residential neighbourhoods, is a gathering point for families and residents. A fatal shooting in such a setting raises understandable concern among locals who use these spaces daily.
Gun violence has remained a persistent challenge in Toronto in recent years. Community advocates and city officials have repeatedly called for investment in violence prevention programs, mental health supports, and neighbourhood infrastructure as part of a long-term strategy to make public spaces safer for everyone.
Investigation Ongoing
Toronto police have not released additional details about what led to the shooting or how investigators identified and located the suspect. Homicide detectives are continuing to investigate, and further information — including the accused's name and a court date — is expected to be made public as proceedings advance.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Toronto Police Service Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
Source: CBC News Toronto
