A Toronto, Canada-based Nigerian man, Adimabua Chukwuka, 31, is facing a potential life sentence after being charged with the first-degree murder of a 60-year-old homeless man, Mario Ferreira, in Toronto, Canada.
Chukwuka was reportedly arrested last Friday by officers from the Toronto Police Service’s 52 Division following a tip-off from the public.
Authorities allege that Chukwuka attacked Ferreira without provocation, resulting in the victim’s death.
According to police reports, officers responded to an emergency call from the University of Toronto Campus Safety Special Constables on March 20 regarding an unconscious man near 144 College Street.
Despite the swift response of emergency personnel, Ferreira was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detective Trevor Grieve reaffirmed the police department’s commitment to justice, stating, “We are dedicated to ensuring justice for Mr. Ferreira and his loved ones.”
He urged anyone with relevant information to come forward, adding, “Even the smallest detail could be crucial, and we encourage anyone who may have seen something to contact us immediately.”
Investigators released an image of the suspect on March 21, leading to Chukwuka’s arrest and subsequent first-degree murder charge.
According to Detective Grieve, surveillance footage revealed that the victim was lying on a bench near 6 Queen’s Park Crescent at approximately 5:20 a.m. when the suspect, armed with debris—possibly from a construction site or dumpster—launched an unprovoked attack.
“Without warning, the suspect approached Mr. Ferreira, who was resting on the bench, and used the debris to strike him repeatedly and violently,” Grieve stated.
The suspect then fled the scene while still holding the object used in the assault, he added.
Investigators continue to review security footage and gather additional evidence related to the incident.
“We are canvassing for more video and further information,” Grieve said, urging individuals with any relevant footage or details to reach out to law enforcement.
Under Section 235 (1) of the Canadian Criminal Code, a conviction for first-degree or second-degree murder carries a mandatory life sentence.
The law specifies, “Everyone who commits first-degree or second-degree murder is guilty of an indictable offence and shall be sentenced to imprisonment for life.”
Furthermore, it states that “the sentence of imprisonment for life prescribed by this section is a minimum punishment.”
If convicted, Chukwuka faces life imprisonment with no possibility of parole for at least 25 years.
