Two charged, third sought in Vaughan attempted murder, Bolton homicide

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Two people have been charged and a third suspect is sought in connection with a 2020 attempted murder in Vaughan and a 2021 homicide in Bolton.

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Caledon OPP say on Nov 12, 2020, around 6:30 p.m., York Regional Police officers responded to a shooting on Steeles Ave. W. in Vaughan.

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One victim was identified and transported to hospital for treatment.

Then on Jan. 18, 2021, around 12:30 p.m., Caledon OPP officers responded to a shooting on Harvest Moon Dr. in Bolton.

At the time it was reported that two people entered a residence and shot two occupants inside the home, one of whom was the victim of the November 2020 incident in Vaughan.

Officers located the other occupant, 65-year-old Giovanni Costa, of Bolton, dead at the scene.

On Tuesday, Christopher Brown, 28, of Barrie was charged with attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, discharging a firearm with intent, and possession of firearms contrary to a prohibition order.

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On Wednesday, Neheniah Tirfe, 25, of Toronto, was charged with first-degree murder and attempted murder.

Also on Wednesday, a province-wide warrant was issued for a third person, Waheed Barakziye, 48, of London, Ont., who faces charges of first-degree murder, attempted murder, and two counts of conspiracy to commit murder.

A photo of him has been released and members of the public are urged not to approach this individual.

If seen, please contact police immediately.

BOTH INCIDENTS NOW BEING INVESTIGATED BY OPP

While the first incident was initially investigated by York Regional Police, both incidents are now being investigated by the Caledon OPP Crime Unit, under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB).

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“While these arrests and charges mark a significant step forward, the investigation remains ongoing and we continue to pursue additional suspects,” OPP Det. Insp. Steven Martell (CIB) said in a statement.

“We urge anyone with information, especially if you recognize the wanted individual, to contact police immediately.”

The Province of Ontario is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the murder of Costa.

Anyone with any information is urged to call Caledon OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

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