17-Year-Old Suspect Wanted in Connection with Murder of Security Guard at Ontario’s Pickering Casino Resort

Posted on: November 13, 2023, 08:56h. 

Last updated on: November 13, 2023, 08:56h.

Authorities are currently on the lookout for a 17-year-old suspect believed to be involved in the fatal shooting of a security guard at the renowned Pickering Casino Resort in Ontario. The incident occurred last month, and law enforcement agencies have been working tirelessly to apprehend the perpetrator.

The suspect, identified as Tyjae Nosworthy-Smith, is the primary focus of the investigation into the murder of 34-year-old Michael Ferdinand. Durham Regional Police (DRP) named Nosworthy-Smith as a suspect in the killing, intending to charge him with second-degree murder, according to CBC News.

“We are pleading for the public’s assistance in locating him,” said DRP Detective Sgt. Brad Corner to Canadian reporters last week.

Nosworthy-Smith, described as a Black male standing at approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing around 110 pounds, is known to have a distinctive tattoo on his left elbow that reads “Chantelle.” Police believe he may be residing in the Jane and Finch area of northwestern Toronto.

Authorities have issued a warning that Nosworthy-Smith should be considered armed and dangerous, urging the public not to approach him but to immediately contact emergency services by dialing 911.

Through interviews with witnesses and analysis of surveillance video footage, detectives were able to identify Nosworthy-Smith as a suspect in the case.

Investigation Ongoing Regarding Other Suspects

While the focus remains on apprehending Nosworthy-Smith, investigators have not ruled out the possibility of additional suspects involved in the shooting. According to reports, multiple gunshots were fired at Ferdinand while he was performing his duties inside the casino building.

Authorities have yet to reveal the motive behind the tragic murder. The incident occurred on Thanksgiving Day, leaving Canadians shocked and saddened.

“We now owe it to [Ferdinand’s] family, friends, and co-workers to bring those responsible to justice,” Corner stated, as reported by CBC News.

Ferdinand was immediately rushed to a trauma center after sustaining critical injuries but sadly succumbed to his wounds.

Community Rallying Support for Ferdinand’s Family

Following the devastating loss, a GoFundMe page has been set up to provide financial assistance to Ferdinand’s grieving family. The page, which aims to help ease the financial burden caused by this senseless act of violence, has already raised $37,390 as of Monday morning.

“Our brother was taken from us… way too soon by a senseless act of gun violence that had no reason to ever be escalated to that extent,” expressed Viny Cuellar, another casino security guard, on the GoFundMe page.

Mike was simply doing his job and ensuring the protection and security of his team and everyone else’s lives who were in the casino that night, [or] have ever been to the casino or ever would have been to the casino.

All proceeds from the fundraising campaign will be directed towards Ferdinand’s widow, Mara, and other family members, aiming to alleviate their pain and support them during this difficult time.

About Pickering Casino Resort

Located near Church Street and Highway 401 in Pickering, Ontario, the Pickering Casino Resort is a prominent gaming establishment situated approximately 28 miles east of Toronto. Operated by the renowned Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, it stands as the largest operator of land-based casinos in Ontario.