Family renews $250k reward in unsolved murder of Toronto tech CEO

The family of a slain Toronto tech CEO has renewed a hefty financial reward in his unsolved murder case, nearly five years since the 37-year-old was killed in Yorkville.

Members of Matthew Staikos family, along with representatives from their private investigation team and Crime Stoppers, announced the $250,000 reward at a news conference on Tuesday morning.

“To say that the last four years, eight months, and 10 days have not been easy, would be a gross understatement,” reads a statement from the family. “Every day has been excruciating, insufferable, seemingly unsurvivable.”

“We are desperate because we will forever love Matthew, so, so much. His murder has shattered our family in so many ways.”

The renewed financial incentive is for anyone with information that can assist in solving the homicide case.

Staikos was killed on the evening of May 28, 2018 at Yorkville and Bay streets.

The 37-year-old worked for BlackBerry for many years before he created Vleepo, a networking platform. He had just left a late meeting when he was shot in what police have called an ambush.

Investigators believe a person jumped out of a silver four-door Mercedes, approached him from behind, and then shot him before fleeing the area. Police previously released photos and surveillance video of the vehicle they believe the shooter used to flee the scene.

Police are still trying to determine a motive for the killing.

“It is our belief there are people who hold information and the tip that could solve this complex investigation,” said David Perry, chairman of Investigative Solutions Network, a private investigation firm hired by the Staikos family. “It is the family’s hope that by offering this private reward of $250,000, one of those people will do the right thing.”

“Help this grieving family find some semblance of peace by knowing who murdered their son and brother.”

The family offered an initial reward of $250,000 for any information leading to identification, apprehension, and successful prosecution of those responsible. That offer has since expired.

Anyone with information can call CrimeStoppers at 416-222-TIPS or submit an anonymous tip at 222tips.com.