TORONTO, ON – July 18, 2025 — A routine morning turned into a nightmare for the family and friends of Shahnaz Pestonji, a 71-year-old woman who was brutally stabbed in an unprovoked attack while shopping in North York on Thursday. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and renewed calls for public vigilance and swift justice.
The fatal stabbing occurred just after 9:30 a.m. on July 17 in a commercial plaza near Parkway Forest Drive and Sheppard Avenue East, a busy area frequented by local residents.
A Random Act of Violence
According to Toronto Police, Shahnaz Pestonji had just finished grocery shopping and was walking back to her vehicle when she was suddenly attacked. Police have stated that there is no evidence to suggest any interaction or conflict prior to the stabbing.
“From what we can tell, she was simply just getting her groceries and going to her car when she was attacked,” said Duty Inspector Phil Sinclair at the scene. “There was nothing to indicate that anything led up to the stabbing. It appears to be completely unprovoked.”
Shahnaz Pestonji was rushed to hospital by emergency responders but sadly succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.
Her death marks Toronto’s 22nd homicide of the year.
Suspect Still at Large
Police say the suspect fled the scene on foot, and as of Friday, no arrest has been made.
The suspect is described as:
- A Black male
- Approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall
- Wearing dark-coloured clothing
- Wearing a balaclava at the time of the attack
Investigators are currently reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding businesses, speaking with witnesses, and urging the public to come forward with any relevant information.
Remembering Shahnaz Pestonji
The loss of Shahnaz Pestonji has deeply affected the North York community, where she was known as a gentle and caring woman. Those who knew her described her as warm-hearted, kind, and someone who never failed to greet others with a smile.
“She didn’t deserve this. No one does,” said a local resident. “She was just doing what we all do—getting groceries. Now she’s gone.”
Appeal for Public Assistance
Toronto Police are asking anyone who was in the area of Parkway Forest Drive and Sheppard Avenue East around 9:30 a.m. on July 17 to check dashcams, security footage, or come forward with any information that could assist in identifying the suspect.
Anyone with information is urged to call Toronto Police at 416-808-7400, or to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.222tips.com.
A City Shaken, A Family Grieving
The killing of Shahnaz Pestonji—a senior citizen simply going about her day—has shaken Toronto’s sense of safety and raised painful questions about public security. As police continue their search for the suspect, one family must now grapple with a devastating loss, and a community mourns a woman who should have made it home.
Rest in peace, Shahnaz Pestonji.
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