Disturbing Events in Brampton and York Region

In a disturbing series of events that has rattled the Brampton and York Region communities, Peel Regional Police have apprehended a man believed to be responsible for a string of violent sexual assaults. This alleged predator posed as a rideshare driver, preying on vulnerable women waiting at bus stops.

Details of the Assaults

During a press conference held on Wednesday, Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich detailed the alarming incidents. The first two assaults occurred on November 8, followed by a third assault on November 16, all taking place in various locations within Brampton and Vaughan.

On the morning of November 8, a woman at a bus stop near Countryside Drive and Bramalea was approached by a man in a black four-door sedan. The suspect presented himself as a rideshare driver and offered the woman a ride. Unfortunately, she was taken to a secluded area near Highway 27 and Nashville Road in Vaughan, where police allege she was sexually assaulted.

Later that same day, the suspect struck again, approaching another woman at a bus stop on Via Romano Way and Goreridge Crescent. After offering her a ride, he transported her to a different location near Highway 50 and Gore Road in Brampton, where she, too, was sexually assaulted.

The pattern continued on November 16 when the suspect approached a third victim waiting at a bus stop near Airport Road and Humberwest Parkway. This assault occurred after the victim was taken to Countryside Drive, close to Airport Road.

Community Response and Investigation

Milinovich emphasized the importance of community awareness and swift action by law enforcement. “During the investigation, we shared details about these incidents through public safety advisories, which helped in gathering information,” he stated.

Thanks to the efforts of the police, a suspect was identified and arrested on November 20 in London, Ontario. The 22-year-old suspect, Arshdeep Singh, now faces a host of serious charges including sexual assault, sexual assault with a weapon, strangulation, robbery, kidnapping, and uttering threats.

Community Safety Concerns

“The gravity of these charges is shocking,” Milinovich remarked, as he addressed the community's concerns. He also noted that police suspect there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward. “We believe there are other victims based on how the accused operated,” he said, urging anyone who might have experienced similar situations to reach out to law enforcement.

The suspect, described as an international student and unaffiliated with any legitimate rideshare service, specifically targeted South Asian women in their early 20s, using the pretense of rideshare services to gain their trust.

Final Thoughts and Advice

As the investigation continues, Milinovich advised the community to remain vigilant, urging individuals not to accept unsolicited rides or services from strangers. “Our commitment to combating sexual and gender-based violence is unwavering. We will hold all perpetrators accountable,” he assured.

The swift identification and arrest of Arshdeep Singh is a relief for many, yet it highlights the ongoing issue of safety in the community. As awareness increases, it becomes crucial for individuals to prioritize their safety and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.