Toronto Police Seek Help Identifying 2003 Park Murder Victim

Investigators in Toronto are seeking assistance to identify a man whose remains were discovered in Humberwoods Park over twenty years ago. The man, who is now believed to originate from Grenada, was found on May 22, 2003, beneath an overturned picnic table. The coroner determined that the cause of death was not suspicious, yet the man’s identity remains unknown.

Toronto Police emphasize that the man likely died one or two days before his body was found. At the time of his death, he was estimated to be between 50 and 60 years old, suggesting he was born in the 1940s or 1950s. Recent advancements in investigative genetic genealogy have led authorities to conclude that he hailed from the Birch Grove area in the parish of St. Andrew, Grenada.

Details of the Discovery

According to the RCMP’s Canada’s Missing webpage, the man was discovered in a vulnerable state, likely using the overturned picnic table for shelter. He is described as Black, approximately 5 feet 1 inch tall, weighing around 120 pounds, with brown eyes and greying, balding hair. Notably, he had multiple teeth missing, with only one remaining tooth in his lower jaw.

Several personal items were found near his remains, including a right black leather-type boot, a black sock, a white baseball hat, a green winter jacket, a navy-coloured winter jacket, a black long-sleeved shirt, a black belt, and an empty bottle of Listerine mouthwash. These items could potentially provide vital clues in identifying the man and determining the circumstances surrounding his death.

Police officials are urging anyone with information about the case or the man’s identity to reach out. Individuals can contact the Toronto Police at 416-808-7411 or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

This case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement in resolving cold cases. The Toronto Police have recognized the significant role that genetic genealogy can play in solving long-standing mysteries, as evidenced by recent successes in similar investigations. As they continue to seek answers, the hope remains that someone may hold the key to unlocking the truth behind this tragic event.