The 2022 Ontario Homicide Victim List is available here
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South Simcoe Police Service responded to the report of a body in a barrel in the Bradford Canal on Canal Road between Simcoe Road and 5th Line, on Friday, April 15, 2022, at approximately 1:30 p.m.
An autopsy completed at the Centre of Forensic Sciences in Toronto on April 17th revealed the male victim died as the result of a homicide. The victim’s identity and cause of death have yet to be released, however, investigators believe he has ties to Toronto.
Update April 21st:
South Simcoe police have identified the victim as Mojtaba Shabani, 37 who also went by “Erik” and “Moji”.
Photo: South Simcoe PD
Police said, although Shabani is believed to be transient in nature, he may have access to the following vehicles:
1- 2004 grey Honda Accord *CHAW891*
2- 2001 blue Honda Civic *BVHR490*
3- 2003 red Volkswagon *CFPC027*
Update May 12th
South Simcoe police announced that Shabani moved to Canada from Iran in 2010. Investigators have been unable to locate any of his international or local relatives. The investigation has revealed he was a member of the LGBTQ2S+ community in Toronto. As part of the investigation police are trying to piece together Mr. Shabani’s life, specifically the last year.
Anyone with information about Mr. Shabani regarding his ex-partners, family, friends, employment and recent movements to contact Detective Constable Andrew Smith at 905-775-3311, 705-436-2141, extension #1043, andrew.smith@southsimcoepolice.ca /Detective Ben Irwin at 905-775-3311 extension #1040 ben.irwin@southsimcoepolice.ca or contact Crime Stoppers.