Update: Toronto Homicide #10 – TPS investigate the disappearance of Nathaniel Brettell, as a homicide

The Toronto 2021 Homicide Victim List is available here

Nathaniel Brettell, 57, was reported missing to police on January 21st after being last seen at his home in the Westona Street and Dixon Road area.

Brettell is described as 5’8, thin build, with receding grey hair and a white beard. At the time of his disappearance, he was believed to be wearing a green, blue and white checkered shirt.

Toronto police said in a press release “Despite extensive inquiries, officers have been unable to locate Nathaniel. This, along with evidence from the scene, has led investigators to determine the investigation to be a homicide.” Police have not said what evidence was collected or where the scene was.

Homicide investigators have now taken carriage of the investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS.

Update May 13th
On May 12, 2021, Ahmed Al-Farkh, 34, of Toronto, was arrested and has been charged with Second-degree murder.

He is scheduled to appear in court at 2201 Finch Avenue West, on Thursday, May 13, 2021, in courtroom 204 via video.

Police are continuing to search for the remains of Nathaniel Brettell.

Update June 30th
Toronto police said “Following a development in the investigation, officers also have reason to believe Nathaniel’s body could be at the landfill site.” A search warrant was granted for the Green Lane Landfill site in Southwold for July 5, 2021. The excavation is expected to be ongoing for the next couple of months.

Update September 3rd
On Thursday, August 26th police located the remains of Nathaniel Brettell at the Green Lane Landfill in Southwold, Ontario.