Authorities have apprehended and charged a man in connection with incidents of harassment and sexual assault involving two women in North York. The Toronto Police Service reported that the suspect, identified as 45-year-old Omar Ayala Rodriguez, targeted his victims in the vicinity of Keele Street and Finch Avenue West.
The first incident occurred on June 11 at approximately 4:15 p.m., when Rodriguez approached a woman in the area. Alarmed by his behavior, the woman quickly fled from the suspect and boarded a bus heading northbound. After reaching the Pioneer Village subway station, the woman encountered Rodriguez again, who continued to harass her. Concerned for her safety, she sought assistance from a Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) employee, which prompted Rodriguez to flee the scene.
Approximately 30 minutes later, in a separate incident, Rodriguez approached a different woman at a bus stop located near Jane Street and Finch Avenue West. In this alarming encounter, he sexually assaulted her. The victim managed to board a bus along with her friend, but Rodriguez persisted in following her onto the bus, where he proceeded to shout at her. Eventually, he exited the bus at the Jane and Finch Mall.
Following the incidents, police were able to identify Rodriguez and took him into custody over the weekend. He now faces several charges, including sexual assault, criminal harassment, uttering threats, and theft under $5,000. Rodriguez was scheduled to make an appearance in court on the following Monday.
These incidents have raised significant concerns about public safety in the area, highlighting the need for vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious behavior. The Toronto Police Service continues to encourage individuals who experience harassment or assault to come forward and seek help.