Earlier this week, police revealed heartbreaking news about 19-year-old Aaron Wrankine-Wright, who tragically lost his life after being run over and beaten to death by three teenage suspects.
The incident occurred on Saturday, June 9th at around 5:30 PM, near Frankish and Sheridan Avenue in Toronto's Little Portugal. According to the police statement, Rankine-Wright was riding his bike to work when he was struck by a black Toyota RAV4.
Three male suspects got out of the car, beat him, and stabbed him in the chest. They ran away on foot, leaving him to succumb to his injuries. His death marks the 39th homicide in Toronto this year.
The following day, police arrested one of the suspects, a 17-year-old boy, on first-degree murder charges. But, in an updated statement by the Toronto Police Service, a 13-year-old boy is now facing the same charges.
In the statement, police say that the 13-year-old was arrested and charged at 8 AM this morning. He is set to appear in downtown Toronto court sometime today.
Police say one suspect remains at large. They describe him as a young man in his teens to early twenties, and was wearing dark clothing at the time of the incident.
Friends and family are still completely shell-shocked by Rankine-Wright's death. They held a vigil for him the night after his death, and a makeshift memorial still stands outside his home. Loved ones describe him as a kindhearted young man and a dedicated athlete.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Rankine-Wright's family. The fundraiser has collected nearly $13,000, more than halfway to their goal.
"On Saturday, June 9th we lost a wonderful young man with a heart of gold and a laugh you can never forget," the GoFundMe page reads, "He made a tremendous impact in our lives. We are asking for as much help as we can get for Aaron's family."
#ICYMI Candles burn at a memorial for a cyclist who died after being struck Saturday. @TorontoPolice say he was also beaten viciously and stabbed. They need *your* help to find 2 suspects. Here’s what we learned about the victim Aaron Rankine-Wright: https://t.co/53VsXSh5vy pic.twitter.com/ZWke6ULpI1
Police are asking anyone with information to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or online at www.222tips.com.
To see the full news release provided by the Toronto Police, click here.