Peel Police Arrest Man for Assaulting Multiple Individuals, Leaving One Woman Dead

Peel Police Arrest Man for Assaulting Multiple Individuals, Leaving One Woman Dead
Peel Regional Police logo is shown on a vehicle in Brampton, Ont., on Nov. 7, 2019. The Canadian Press/Cole Burston
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Peel Regional Police say a man in his 50s is facing charges for second degree murder and aggravated assault after he allegedly assaulted multiple individuals in Mississauga.

The police service responded to reports of a male allegedly assaulting individuals with a blunt object in the area of Dixie Road and Dundas Street East in Mississauga at approximately 7:56 p.m. on Jan. 30, a spokesperson for the Peel Regional Police told The Epoch Times.

“Upon arrival, officers located a 55-year-old woman suffering from life-threatening injuries,” the spokesperson said. “She was transported to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.”

Police say they apprehended the suspect after a short foot pursuit, and discovered the suspect also assaulted a 61-year-old man at a bus stop in the area roughly 30 minutes before the incident with the 55-year-old woman.

“Thanks to swift actions from the police officers who responded, the suspect was arrested a short distance away from the scene,” Const. Taylor Halfyard told reporters.

Peel police say Kent McKerron, 58, who has no fixed address, has been charged with second degree murder and aggravated assault in connection with the incidents. McKerron was held in custody pending a bail hearing on Jan. 31, Halfyard said.

Both of the incidents were “random, unprovoked” assaults, and police believe there could be more victims, he added.

“We understand how unsettling incidents like this can be, but please know that the person responsible for this incident here in Mississauga is in custody and there is no active risk to our community at this time,” Halfyard said.

“There will be an increased police presence in the area as the investigation is ongoing and we will continue to work closely with community partners to ensure residents feel safe and supported.”

Peel Regional Police are asking anyone with additional information on the case to contact the police force’s Homicide and Missing Persons Bureau. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Peel Crime Stoppers, the police force said.