Toronto police responded to a medical call for service in the Finch Avenue East and Seneca Hill Drive area on January 18th at approximately 8:15pm.
On arrival first responders located a 70-year-old woman in medical distress suffering from serious injuries. Despite life-saving efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The victim has been identified as Joy Barnwell, 70, of Toronto, and the cause of death, neck compression.
Michael Rawlins, 27, of Toronto has been arrested and charged with:
- Second Degree Murder
*According to ‘Immigrant Women In Business’ Communication Group Michael Rawlins is the son of Joy Barnwell.
Update April 7th 2025, Michael Rawlins, Joy Barnwell’s adoptive son, has been sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole for 10 years after pleading guilty to the second-degree murder of his mother on April 7th. The crime occurred while Rawlins was out on bail and living with his mother as part of the conditions of his release.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).