York Regional Police say detectives have charged one man and are actively seeking another in connection with the kidnapping of a Richmond Hill resident who was reported missing earlier this month.
Initial report and investigation
Police were notified that a man had not reported for work on July 7. His place of business is located near Denison Street and Woodbine Avenue in Markham. Officers later concluded the man had been abducted and requested assistance from York Regional Police’s Homicide Unit.
Victim located; charges laid
Two days after the disappearance police located the victim and said he was "safely located." Officials did not disclose whether he sustained any physical injuries. On July 9 investigators arrested a 39-year-old man from Toronto, identified as Haidong Zhou, and charged him with kidnapping with a firearm and forcible confinement.
Second suspect remains at large
Investigators continue to search for a second suspect, identified as Jianwei “John” Fan, 44, of Toronto. He is wanted on a charge of conspiracy to commit an indictable offence. Police have released his image and are asking the public for help locating him.
Police encourage Fan to seek legal advice and turn himself in and are reminding the public that anyone who helps him may be criminally charged.
How the public can help
Authorities have asked anyone with information about Fan’s whereabouts to contact the York Regional Police Homicide Unit or to provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers. Investigators did not release additional operational details or a motive.
- Date reported missing: July 7
- Victim located: July 9 (described as safely located)
- Accused arrested: Haidong Zhou, 39 (Toronto)
- Wanted: Jianwei “John” Fan, 44 (Toronto)
| Person | Age | Alleged charge | Location given |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haidong Zhou | 39 | Kidnapping with a firearm; forcible confinement | Toronto |
| Jianwei “John” Fan | 44 | Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence | Toronto (wanted) |
Local residents with concerns about safety or who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the Denison Street and Woodbine Avenue area around the time of the incident are encouraged to contact police. The investigation remains active and police will release further information as it becomes available.
