A disturbing pattern of alleged assaults is unfolding across the Greater Toronto Area, prompting a police investigation into a man already facing serious charges. Authorities believe 31-year-old Saman Salimianrizi may have targeted multiple victims, extending beyond a recent incident on a Richmond Hill transit bus.
The initial report came from a woman travelling northbound on a bus from Finch Station on November 18th. Between 6 and 7 p.m., she reported a man sat beside her and subjected her to a sexual assault. Her immediate and courageous confrontation of the assailant, followed by a report to the bus driver, led to the suspect fleeing the scene.
Investigators quickly focused on Salimianrizi, who was arrested on Thursday and charged with sexual assault and two counts of probation breach. The arrest, however, revealed a deeply troubling detail: he was already on probation for similar offences in both York Region and Toronto.
This isn’t Salimianrizi’s first encounter with the law regarding alleged transit-related assaults. He was previously charged in April following another reported sexual assault on a bus in Richmond Hill, painting a picture of escalating and predatory behavior.
Police now suspect Salimianrizi’s actions weren’t confined to Richmond Hill. Evidence suggests he travelled to Brampton and potentially targeted other individuals. This has led to the release of his image, hoping to jog the memories of anyone who may have encountered him.
Detectives are urgently seeking information that could link Salimianrizi to additional incidents in York and Peel Regions. Anyone with knowledge relevant to the investigation is encouraged to contact the Special Victims Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7071, or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
The investigation underscores the vulnerability of public transit passengers and the importance of reporting any suspicious or concerning behavior. Authorities are determined to identify and support any further victims who may have been impacted by Salimianrizi’s alleged actions.
