TORONTO — Toronto police have identified the woman killed in what they called an unprovoked stabbing as the search continues for the suspect.
Police said 71-year-old Shahnaz Pestonji was loading her groceries in a North York parking lot on Thursday morning when a man attacked her.
Pestonji was taken to a hospital where she was pronounced dead, police said. The male suspect, who investigators said wore a balaclava, fled the area on foot.
"Since the homicide took place, police have conducted an extensive search – canvassing door-to-door, using canine units and drones, and reviewing surveillance footage from the area – and we continue to follow every investigative lead," police said in a statement Friday.
Police have released surveillance images of the suspect and are asking anyone who sees him to call 911 immediately.
"Given what we know, we want to be absolutely clear: we believe this individual is dangerous, and the public should not approach him," they said.
Shelley Carroll, the city councillor who represents the area, said she was "heartbroken" to learn about the attack.
"This is a devastating and senseless act of violence, and my thoughts are with her family, friends, and everyone in the community who has been shaken by this tragedy," she said in a statement shared on social media.
Carroll said support was available for local residents and businesses impacted by the "violent" and "traumatic" incident.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 18, 2025.
Sharif Hassan, The Canadian Press
