Parkdale residents hold candlelight vigil for beating victim George Wass

About 100 people gathered Wednesday night in Parkdale to remember George Wass at an emotional candlelight vigil.

Wass, 62, was one of six people attacked in the Parkdale area.   He died three days after he was beaten on March 18.  

A male suspect, who police believe is responsible for all six attacks, remains at large. 

“Judging by a lot of people that are here, he was loved,” Wass’ niece, Tiffany Walford, told CityNews.

“Nobody has the right to take away somebody’s freedom to walk the street, and everyone is feeling fear right now and it’s not fair for them.”

Residents are also expressing their anger.

“We’re not going to stand for what he’s doing,” said Cheryl Chrydsale. “It’s upsetting, I don’t want to have to get a ride home after dark, I should be able to walk my street and feel safe.”

Toronto police Chief Bill Blair did his best to allay the fears of concerned residents during a town hall meeting on police priorities Tuesday night.

“We’re going to catch this guy,” Blair assured those in attendance at Metro Hall.

Blair advised residents not to walk alone at night, and to develop a ‘buddy system.’

Two elderly Parkdale residents were on hand, and told Blair they are living in fear and rarely leave their homes.

The string of unprovoked assaults began on January 4 when a 47-year-old woman was attacked while walking near Queen and Jameson.  That was one of two attacks reported in January, with another coming in February, two in March, and one in April.

Since he’s usually masked and attacks from behind, only a vague description of the suspect has been provided.   He’s 5’9″-5’10” with a medium build.

“We are definitely dedicated to trying to determine who is responsible,” said Cst. Tony Vella.  “It’s taking some time but rest assure there are a number of officers working on the investigation right now.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-1906, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637), or Leave A Tip on Facebook. 

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