Suspect wanted in downtown Toronto stabbing previously convicted in Danzig shooting

Toronto police have confirmed that a man wanted in connection with a stabbing that took place last week in the city’s downtown core was previously convicted in connection to one of the worst mass shootings in Toronto’s history.

Officers responded to a call for a stabbing around 10:30 p.m. on Friday, July 11, in the area of Yonge Street and Dundas Street East.

Upon arrival, police located a 30-year-old male victim suffering from serious stab wounds. He was rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Following an investigation, police identified the suspect as Shaquan Mesquito, 31, of Toronto. He’s wanted for attempted murder, aggravated assault and assault with a weapon.

Investigators have not indicated whether the suspect and victim knew each other.

Mesquito is known as one of the men convicted in connection to the Danzig mass shooting that made headlines around the world.

Two people, Shyanne Charles, 14, and Joshua Yasay, 23, were killed and 22 others were injured at a barbecue, which was held at a housing complex near Morningside Avenue and Danzig Street on July 16, 2012.

Mesquito initially faced first-degree murder charges in the incident but they were later dropped after video surveillance later showed he was nowhere near the shooting at the time it happened. Mesquito also took to social media at the time, taking credit for the shooting.

He pleaded guilty to other charges, including counselling to murder and uttering a threat to a person to cause bodily harm, and was sentenced to nine years less time served.

Authorities warn that Mesquito is considered dangerous and should not be approached. His image has been released to the public in hopes of gathering information on his whereabouts.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police.