Durham Police Chief Peter Moreira spoke to reporters outside the West Division building on May 29. CTV
Police have arrested a 13-year-old boy after an elderly woman was fatally stabbed outside her home in Pickering. The incident happened on Thursday afternoon and shocked the entire community.
Durham Police Chief Peter Moreira confirmed the arrest. The boy was taken into custody around 8:30 p.m. by a tactical unit without any struggle. The teen is also from Pickering. However, his name cannot be shared because of his age. Police said they will announce the charges later.
Chief Moreira said the investigation has just begun, so they aren’t sharing many details yet. He mentioned that the connection between the victim and the boy is still unknown and will be part of the ongoing probe.
Public Alert Lifted After Arrest
Earlier in the day, police had asked people in the area to stay indoors for safety. They also sent an emergency alert looking for an unknown male suspect. This warning was lifted after the teen’s arrest.
“You can now return to your daily lives,” said Chief Moreira. He thanked his officers, along with help from the Ontario Provincial Police, Toronto officers, and the city, for their quick response. Police will still be in the neighborhood in the coming days to make sure the community feels safe.
Mayor Shares Condolences
Pickering’s Mayor Kevin Ashe also spoke at the scene. He called it a painful day for the city.
“This is a very safe place to live, so this hurts everyone,” Ashe said. He added that the boy was arrested at his home.
The city closed its buildings and canceled all public programs to protect residents. Local sports groups also agreed to cancel events for the evening. “We hope we can leave this dark day behind us,” Ashe added.
He offered heartfelt condolences to the victim’s family. “When one person in Pickering is in pain, we all feel it,” he said.
Neighbors Remember the Victim
Neighbors shared more about the woman who was killed. They said her name was Eleanor and that she was in her early 80s. Eleanor was gardening when she was attacked in broad daylight.
She was a retired kindergarten teacher and lived with her husband. This was the second murder in Pickering this year.
Police Used All Tools in Search
Earlier, police said they used helicopters, drones, and special teams to find the suspect. The stabbing happened around 3 p.m. on Lynn Heights Drive.
Chief Moreira described the act as “sadistic and cowardly.” He said it was an unprovoked attack, and a camera captured the horrifying moment.
Police found Eleanor with serious injuries. She was taken to a trauma center but didn’t survive.
Video footage showed the attacker approach Eleanor, stab her several times, and then flee on foot. He wore a black jacket, a surgical mask, and carried a black bag.
Anyone with more information is encouraged to contact local police or share tips anonymously.
