On the night of Tuesday, June 17, 2025, a fatal stabbing took place in Toronto’s east end near Danforth and Coxwell avenues. The victim, 36-year-old Ashkan Pournasir-Roudbane, was found with critical wounds behind a local plaza and later died in hospital. The suspect, described as a male dressed in dark clothing with a face covering and considered armed and dangerous, fled the scene. Toronto Police have released the suspect’s image and are actively seeking public assistance in locating him. This incident marks the 16th homicide in the city this year and has led to increased police activity in the area.
The incident unfolded around 10:30 p.m. near the intersection of Danforth Avenue and Coxwell Avenue, a typically busy area in Toronto’s east end. Emergency responders arrived promptly after receiving calls reporting a violent altercation behind a local plaza. Upon arrival, officers discovered Ashkan Pournasir-Roudbane suffering from multiple stab wounds and immediately provided medical assistance before paramedics transported him to a nearby hospital. Despite these efforts, Pournasir-Roudbane succumbed to his injuries a few hours later.
Suspect Description and Police Response
The suspect is described by witnesses as a male wearing dark clothing, including a face covering that obscured his identity. Authorities have confirmed that the individual is armed and dangerous, advising the public to avoid any contact and report sightings immediately. Toronto Police Service (TPS) released an image of the suspect obtained through surveillance footage and are urging residents to come forward with any information that could assist in his apprehension.
Community Impact and Police Measures
This tragic event marks the city’s 16th homicide so far in 2025, raising concerns among residents about safety in the affected neighborhoods. In response, TPS has increased patrols and established a dedicated task force to investigate the incident thoroughly. Community leaders have also called for heightened vigilance and cooperation between local citizens and law enforcement to prevent further violence.
Ongoing Investigation
Investigators are currently examining the circumstances leading up to the stabbing to determine any possible motives and whether the suspect acted alone or in concert with others. Authorities continue to collect evidence from the scene and review additional surveillance footage. Police have appealed to anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident to contact the TPS Homicide Unit directly.
Public Safety Advisory
- The suspect remains at large and should be considered armed and dangerous.
- Residents are advised to stay vigilant, avoid the immediate area near Danforth and Coxwell avenues, and report any suspicious activity.
- Information can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online.
Toronto Police emphasize that investigations are ongoing, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available. The community’s cooperation is deemed essential to bringing the suspect to justice and restoring safety to the neighborhood.
In summary, the fatal stabbing of Ashkan Pournasir-Roudbane near Danforth and Coxwell avenues has heightened concerns over public safety in Toronto’s east end. With the suspect still at large and considered armed and dangerous, Toronto Police have intensified their investigative efforts and urged the community to remain vigilant. Continued public cooperation and timely information sharing will be critical in aiding law enforcement to apprehend the individual responsible and prevent further incidents. Authorities reaffirm their commitment to keeping residents informed as the investigation progresses.
