York Regional Police have issued a warrant for a 20-year-old man after a 15-year-old girl was assaulted inside an abandoned building in Vaughan on July 12.
Incident and victim
Officers responded to a call at a vacant structure near Jane Street and Highway on July 12. Investigators say the youth was attacked with a weapon and choked before managing to escape and contact police. The victim was taken to hospital with what police described as minor injuries.
Suspect details and charges
Police identified the man sought as Avi Jackson-Bungiena, 20, of Toronto. He is wanted on multiple charges, including:
- Assault
- Assault with a weapon (two counts)
- Breach of probation (two counts)
York Regional Police say a warrant has been issued after repeated attempts to locate him were unsuccessful. Investigators note that at the time of the Vaughan incident he was already on probation relating to a separate matter involving another victim.
“Anyone providing assistance to him may be subject to criminal charges,” police warned in their release.
Description and public appeal
The man is described as approximately 6'1", with a slender build (about 135 lb), brown eyes and short black hair. He was last seen wearing a black T-shirt, black shorts and white running shoes.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Avi Jackson-Bungiena, 20 |
| Location of incident | Abandoned building, Jane St. & Highway area, Vaughan |
| Victim | 15-year-old female; minor injuries |
| Charges | Assault; Assault with a weapon x2; Breach of probation x2 |
Investigators have released an image of the accused and are asking anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact York Regional Police. Tips can be provided to 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6716, or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online at www.1800222tips.com. Police also urged the accused to seek legal advice and surrender to authorities.
The investigation remains active. Police cautioned that harbouring or assisting a person subject to an arrest warrant may result in criminal charges.