Toronto Police have identified the victim of a deadly downtown assault as 68-year-old Joseph Eric Aubin, and are asking for the public’s help in locating his next-of-kin. Investigators say Aubin, who went by the name “Eric,” is believed to be from Quebec.
Aubin was the victim in a series of violent and unprovoked attacks that occurred in downtown Toronto on August 31, 2025. The fatal incident took place near Queen Street West and Bay Street around 6:08 a.m., when he was assaulted with a weapon. Though initially treated and released from hospital, Aubin was later found unresponsive on September 4, and pronounced dead at the scene. His death marks Toronto’s 29th homicide of 2025.
Following an extensive investigation, police arrested 20-year-old Isaiah Byers and a 12-year-old boy, both from Toronto. The pair have been charged with second-degree murder and multiple counts of robbery, assault with a weapon, and aggravated assault.
Authorities say all victims were strangers to the suspects and that the attacks were unprovoked.
Anyone with information regarding Mr. Aubin’s relatives or background is urged to contact Toronto Police at 416-808-7400 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
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