Toronto surpasses homicide total of 2017 after man fatally stabbed in Weston neighbourhood

Toronto has recorded its 67th homicide of 2018 after a man was fatally stabbed in the Weston neighbourhood, surpassing last year’s total of 66.

Toronto police said the incident happened around 5 a.m. in the area of Lawrence Avenue and Weston Road.

“The altercation began at 5 Bellevue Crescent,” Det. Brandon Price told reporters at the scene on Friday. “The victim then fled out to Weston Road and he collapsed just over to my left here and the suspect in the attack fled westbound on Bellevue Crescent.”

Toronto paramedics said they transported a male victim to hospital with multiple stab wounds.

He was taken to a trauma centre in life-threatening condition where he succumbed to his injuries.

Toronto police have not released the victim’s identity. The investigation into the stabbing is ongoing.

“We will be releasing information about the victim once next-of-kin has been notified,” Price said.

Toronto Police Deputy Chief James Ramer said in an update on Twitter Friday evening that a 17-year-old boy was arrested in connection with the stabbing.

He said the suspect will be charged with first-degree murder.

— With files from Mark Carcasole and Nick Westoll