Full Breakdown
Reward Offered for Information in Pickering Casino Homicide
12/16/2025, 1:16:56 AM
Overview of the Incident
On October 9, 2023, Michael Ferdinand, a 34-year-old security guard, was fatally shot while on duty at the Pickering Casino Resort in Ontario, Canada. The incident occurred shortly after 5 a.m. when Ferdinand was reportedly engaged with a group of individuals who subsequently shot him. He was transported to a trauma center in Toronto but succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. Authorities have indicated that the shooting was not believed to be targeted.
Suspect Identification and Description
Durham Regional Police have identified Tyjae Nosworthy-Smith, now 20 years old, as the primary suspect in Ferdinand's murder. At the time of the shooting, Nosworthy-Smith was 17 years old. He is wanted on a Canada-wide warrant for second-degree murder and is considered armed and dangerous. Police describe him as approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, weighing around 110 pounds, and having a tattoo on his left elbow that reads "Chantel." He is also known by the nickname "Baby 2" and has ties to the Driftwood area of Toronto.
Community Response and Official Statements
In response to the ongoing investigation, Durham Regional Police have announced a reward of $25,000 for information leading to Nosworthy-Smith's arrest. Detective Sergeant Erik Mamers emphasized the community's role in aiding the investigation, stating, “Someone knows where Tyjae is. Someone has a piece of information that we need.”
Ferdinand's widow, Mara Abolins, expressed the profound impact of her husband's death on their family, stating, “Our family is living with a loss that cannot be repaired and we are asking for the community’s help, not out of anger but the need for truth and accountability.” She highlighted the emotional toll of the tragedy, noting that this would be their third Christmas without him.
Criticism & Opposition
While the police have made efforts to publicize the case and seek community assistance, there has been criticism regarding the handling of the suspect's identity due to protections under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Initially, Nosworthy-Smith's name and image could only be released for a limited time, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the public appeal for information.
Call to Action
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Nosworthy-Smith's whereabouts to contact the Durham Regional Police Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers anonymously. Detective Sergeant Mamers warned, “If you see Tyjae do not approach him, call 911 immediately,” and reiterated the legal consequences for anyone aiding him in evading capture.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As you can imagine since his life was brutally cut short by this senseless act, the impact on our family has been devastating.” — Mara Abolins, Widow of Michael Ferdinand
- “His death shattered his family and left a permanent void in the lives of those who loved him, worked alongside him, and depended on him.” — Detective Sergeant Erik Mamers
This case remains a priority for law enforcement as they seek justice for Michael Ferdinand and closure for his grieving family.
