Former CBC journalist dies after ‘random assault’ in Toronto’s Greektown

A man has died after another random attack in Toronto. The victim has been identified as a retired CBC radio producer, while the suspect is still at large. Tina Yazdani reports.

A former CBC journalist has died following an apparent unprovoked attack in Toronto’s Greektown neighbourhood last week.

Police were called to the area of Danforth and Jones avenues on the afternoon of Jan. 24.

Investigators say a suspect was walking along Danforth when they encountered another man and assaulted him. The victim fell to the ground and sustained serious injuries.

Advertisement

Police have confirmed the victim has since passed away.

The CBC confirmed that longtime radio producer Michael Finlay died on Tuesday due to medical complications stemming from what they call a “random assault.”

A former employee with the CBC told CityNews that the victim of the assault was released from hospital following the attack and then suffered a cardiac arrest at home.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic news and are sending our heartfelt sympathies to Michael’s family and friends,” reads a statement from the broadcast company. “Michael will be remembered as an exceptional story-teller, documentary-maker and editor.”

The suspect in the attack fled the scene. He is described as six-feet-tall with a slim build and was last seen wearing a red paper mask with flames on it, a black sweater, and black pants.