Toronto in Shock: 14-Year-Old Kymani Wint Wanted for Fatal Stabbing of Elderly Woman
Toronto Police have launched a city-wide manhunt for 14-year-old Kymani Wint, who is now the prime suspect in the brutal daylight stabbing of a 71-year-old woman in North York. The rare move to release the teen’s identity was authorized by the courts under public safety concerns.
The incident occurred on the morning of July 17, when Shahnaz Pestonji, 71, was attacked while loading groceries into her car in a quiet residential parking lot near Parkway Forest Drive and Sheppard Avenue East. She later died in hospital from her injuries.
Police describe the attack as sudden, violent, and unprovoked. Investigators believe the motive may have been an attempted robbery that escalated into a fatal assault. Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts helped identify the suspect.
Kymani Wint is described as 5’7”, approximately 135 pounds with a slim build. He was last seen wearing black pants, a black hoodie with the text “New York – 555,” a balaclava, and carrying a satchel. Authorities say he may still be armed and caution the public not to approach him under any circumstances.
Wint was last spotted around noon at Kennedy Station, suggesting he may be using public transit to move across the city. Police are using canine units, drones, and extensive neighborhood canvassing in the ongoing search.
This tragic incident marks Toronto’s 22nd homicide of the year, and one of the youngest suspects in recent memory to face a second-degree murder charge. The judicial order allowing his name and image to be published will remain in effect until July 23 at 4:00 p.m.
City officials are urging residents to remain alert and report any sightings or relevant information immediately. The investigation continues as police ramp up efforts to locate the teen before further harm can occur.
Support services have been offered to the victim’s family and residents shaken by the incident. The community is reeling from what officials are calling one of the most disturbing acts of youth violence in recent years.
